Apparently moved by days of unrelenting backlash trailing the recent exercise of power of prerogative of mercy by President Bola Tinubu on certain categories of inmates, including one Maryam Sanda, who was convicted and sentenced for the gruesome múrder of her husband in Abuja in 2017, the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice has clarified that no inmate approved for clemency under the exercise has been released from custody.
Fagbemi said that the process was subject change after a review.
This was disclosed via a statement personally signed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), on Thursday evening.
Fagbemi stated that the process remained at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued.
“It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary.
“This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action.”
He noted that the verification process was part of the standard protocol and reflected the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence.
“The Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance.”
“There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy. As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” the statement added.
The Daily Crucible reports that the Council of State had recently ratified a list of 175 offenders – both dead and alive – who had served and those serving prison terms, including those on death row, presented before them by President Bola Tinubu as beneficiaries of the presidential power of prerogative of mercy.
But the exercise was greeted with sharp criticisms because convicts of murder and drug trafficking were deemed as largely major beneficiaries.
