President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally signed the Instrument of Clemency and Pardons, completing the constitutional process of granting pardon and mercy to selected individuals convicted of various offences.
In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu’s action follows consultations with the Council of State and a review of public opinion regarding the initial list of beneficiaries.
The President, exercising his powers under Section 175(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), ordered a comprehensive review of the clemency list to ensure fairness, justice, and alignment with national security priorities.
As a result, individuals convicted of kidnapping, drug-related crimes, human trafficking, fraud, and illegal firearms possession or dealing were removed from the list, while others who had previously been pardoned had their sentences commuted.
The Presidency explained that the review was necessary due to the seriousness and security implications of some offences, the need to respect victims’ rights, and to boost the morale of law enforcement agencies. It added that justice must serve as a “three-way traffic” for the accused, the victim, and the state.
However, controversy trailed the updated list after it was revealed that Maryam Sanda, convicted and sentenced to death by hanging in 2020 for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, was re-included. Her sentence has now been reduced to 12 years imprisonment on compassionate grounds.
To improve transparency and accountability, President Tinubu also ordered the relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice.
In addition, the Attorney-General of the Federation has been directed to issue new guidelines for future clemency exercises, including mandatory consultation with prosecuting agencies to ensure that only qualified individuals benefit from the process.
President Tinubu expressed appreciation to stakeholders and the general public for their constructive engagement on the issue and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial reform and the effective administration of justice in Nigeria.
