By Katsina Times
Abuja | Tuesday, October 29, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the instruments of clemency and pardon, exercising his constitutional powers to grant mercy to selected individuals who were earlier convicted of various offences.
According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the action followed consultations with the Council of State and consideration of public opinion on the matter.
The President, however, ordered a review of the earlier approved list, removing names of those convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug-related offences, human trafficking, fraud, and illegal arms possession. Some others had their sentences reduced.
The review, the statement noted, was guided by security concerns, the need to respect victims’ feelings, uphold societal interest, and boost the morale of law enforcement agencies. It also aligned with Nigeria’s bilateral obligations and the broader concept of justice for the accused, the victim, and the state.
The approved list of beneficiaries has been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in accordance with the signed instruments of release.
In a related directive, President Tinubu ordered the relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice.
He further directed the Attorney-General of the Federation to develop new guidelines for future exercises, which will include mandatory consultations with relevant prosecuting agencies.
President Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms and improving the justice system in Nigeria.
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