The Federal Government has begun reviewing the controversial presidential pardon list after anti-graft and security agencies raised objections to the inclusion of some violent and high-profile offenders.
ABUJA — The Federal Government is reportedly reviewing the recent presidential pardon list following widespread public criticism and objections from key security and anti-graft agencies.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), confirmed on Thursday that the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy announced by President Bola Tinubu “is still under review and has not been finalised.”
Fagbemi explained that the process remained at the final administrative stage to ensure “all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued.”
Sources revealed that agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency raised strong objections, alleging that some “smuggled names” were not recommended by the official screening committee.
A top security official told The PUNCH that “some of the proposed beneficiaries can never be released,” especially those convicted of murder, kidnapping, and corruption.
The list, which includes the late Maj. Gen. Mamman Vatsa, Ken Saro-Wiwa, and Maryam Sanda, sparked outrage after it was revealed that several convicts linked to violent crimes were among the 175 beneficiaries.
Fagbemi assured Nigerians that no inmate had been released yet, emphasizing that “the rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness.”