By Dayo Adesulu | The Cheer News
ABUJA — The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has clarified why none of the inmates recently granted presidential pardon by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have been released from prison custody.
According to him, although the Council of State approved the exercise under the President’s prerogative of mercy, the process remains inconclusive and under administrative review.
AGF Fagbemi: Process Still Under Legal Verification
In a statement personally signed and released to journalists on Thursday, Fagbemi said his office appreciated the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback regarding the delay. He stressed that the public would be duly informed once all procedural checks were concluded.
“The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wishes to clarify that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody,” he said.
Fagbemi noted that the review process was a standard legal protocol designed to ensure that every name and recommendation on the clemency list complied with established laws and procedures before any release instrument could be issued.
Why the Pardon Implementation Is Delayed
The AGF explained that the final stage of the pardon process involves issuing official release instruments, which must pass through a final administrative check for remedial corrections if necessary.
“The last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for implementation concerning each beneficiary. This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes before it is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections,” he said.
According to him, this verification ensures transparency, due diligence, and integrity in the administration of justice.
Fagbemi further emphasized that there was no deliberate delay but a commitment to follow the law to the letter to ensure fairness.
“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,” he reiterated.
Public Reaction and Controversy
President Tinubu recently granted clemency to 175 convicts and ex-convicts, some of whom were convicted of serious crimes including drug trafficking, terrorism, and murder.
The announcement triggered public outrage and mixed reactions across the country, as critics questioned the inclusion of certain high-profile offenders.
Some legal experts and human rights advocates argued that the decision undermines the nation’s justice system and sends the wrong message about accountability and the fight against crime.
Meanwhile, families of victims of violent crimes, including the family of late Bilyaminu Bello, have openly condemned the inclusion of offenders like Maryam Sanda—convicted for his murder—among the beneficiaries.
Government Promises Transparency
Prince Fagbemi reaffirmed the government’s dedication to maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that the prerogative of mercy is not abused.
He maintained that public engagement and feedback play a vital role in promoting good governance and strengthening institutional integrity.
“Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance,” he added.
The Minister assured Nigerians that once all legal checks are completed, the public will be duly notified.
“The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” he concluded.
Conclusion
The clarification by the Attorney General may ease public anxiety over the Tinubu Presidential Pardon Delay, though questions remain about the criteria used in selecting the 175 beneficiaries. As Nigerians await the final list, the Ministry of Justice insists the process must adhere strictly to due process to protect the integrity of the nation’s legal system.
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