President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally exercised his constitutional powers to grant pardon and clemency to selected inmates after signing the necessary instruments of release, following consultations with the Council of State and public opinion.

In a major policy shift, the President ordered a review of the initial beneficiary list, removing individuals convicted for serious offences such as kidnapping, drug-related crimes, human trafficking, fraud, and arms dealing, while commuting sentences for some previously approved names.

Citing security concerns, public sensitivity, victim justice, and law enforcement morale, the President emphasized that justice must serve the accused, victims, and society. The approved list has been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation.

To strengthen transparency and public confidence in future clemency exercises, President Tinubu directed the relocation of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy’s Secretariat to the Federal Ministry of Justice, and ordered the Attorney-General to issue strict guidelines requiring mandatory consultation with prosecuting agencies.

The President thanked stakeholders for their constructive feedback and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms and improved justice administration across Nigeria.