Abuja, October 29, 2025 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has formally exercised his constitutional powers under Section 175 (1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), by signing instruments of release granting pardon and clemency to selected individuals previously convicted of various offences.
According to a statement from the Presidency, the action follows extensive consultations with the Council of State and consideration of public opinion regarding the exercise of the prerogative of mercy.
The President, however, ordered a review of the initially approved list to ensure that only deserving individuals benefit from the clemency process. As a result, persons convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug-related offences, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession or dealing in firearms were removed from the list, while sentences for some others were commuted instead of total pardon.
The Presidency said the review was guided by the seriousness and security implications of certain offences, the need to respect the feelings of victims and society at large, to maintain the morale of law enforcement agencies, and to uphold Nigeria’s bilateral obligations.
“The concept of justice as a three-way traffic — for the accused, the victim, and the state or society — informed the President’s decision,” the statement noted.
The final 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 development, President Tinubu has directed 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.
The Attorney-General of the Federation has also been instructed to issue new Guidelines for the Exercise of the Power of Prerogative of Mercy, mandating compulsory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies before any future recommendations are approved.
This measure, according to the President, is aimed at ensuring transparency, due process, and public confidence in the clemency process going forward.
President Tinubu expressed appreciation for the constructive feedback and engagement of citizens and stakeholders on the issue, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms and the enhancement of justice delivery in Nigeria.
