President Bola Tinubu has revised the list of individuals granted presidential pardon, clemency, and sentence reduction, excluding those convicted of serious crimes like kidnapping, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.
According to news reports, the review reduced the total number of beneficiaries from 175 to 86, aiming to ensure sensitivity to crime victims and the wider society, boost law enforcement morale, and uphold Nigeria’s bilateral obligations.
The decision followed recommendations by the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, citing remorse, good conduct, and vocational skills acquisition as key considerations. Notably, Maryam Sanda, convicted of killing her husband, had her sentence reduced from capital punishment to 12 years in prison.
Tinubu’s review was guided by the concept of justice as a three-way traffic, balancing fairness to the accused, compassion for victims, and societal interests. The presidency emphasized national security, victim feelings, and public confidence in law enforcement as crucial factors.
Key Changes and Reforms
- Exclusion of Serious Offenders: Individuals convicted of kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and firearms offenses were removed from the list.
- Sentence Commutations: Some previously pardoned individuals had their sentences commuted instead of full pardons.
- New Guidelines: The Attorney-General of the Federation will issue guidelines for future clemency exercises, including mandatory consultation with prosecuting agencies.
- Secretariat Relocation: The Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy secretariat was relocated from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice.
The review addresses public concerns about the initial pardon list, ensuring transparency and accountability in the justice system.
