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The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice of Nigeria, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, has clarified the procedures surrounding recent presidential clemency decisions, emphasising that no inmate has yet been released.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 16, Fagbemi explained that the list of individuals granted clemency, which includes white-collar convicts, drug offenders, and other inmates, is still undergoing a final administrative review.
This stage ensures that all recommendations comply fully with legal and procedural requirements before any release instruments are issued.
“Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution empowers the President to grant mercy to any person convicted of an offence created by an Act of the National Assembly.
However, it is important to note that the final stage, after approval by the Council of State, allows for a last review of the list for remedial purposes,” Fagbemi said.
The clarification comes in response to public concerns following announcements about the clemency of approximately 175 convicts, including individuals convicted of financial fraud and illegal mining.
Among the beneficiaries were Major General Mamman Vatsa, Major Akubo, Professor Magaji Garba, Maryam Sanda, Ken Saro-Wiwa, and members of the Ogoni Eight.
Many were granted mercy on grounds of remorse, good conduct, or age.
Fagbemi assured that the government will adhere strictly to the law, emphasising that only those duly qualified will benefit from the President’s prerogative of mercy.
The process, he stressed, is still at the administrative stage, and the issuance of release instruments by the Controller-General of Corrections will follow only after all checks are completed.
The Attorney-General acknowledged the public’s vigilance, highlighting that constructive feedback is integral to ensuring transparency and fairness in the exercise of presidential clemency.
This statement seeks to reassure Nigerians that the clemency process is methodical, legal, and carefully monitored, dispelling misconceptions about premature releases.
