President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revoked pardons and clemency granted to a number of high-profile convicts, including Maryam Sanda, as part of a major revision of the prerogative of mercy list. The change comes amid widespread public backlash and growing concerns over the inclusion of serious offenders in the initial remission exercise. (saharareporters.com)
According to a statement by Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president signed the required instruments and directed that individuals convicted of kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, firearms offences, and other serious crimes be removed from or face sentence commutation rather than full pardon. (ndr.org.ng)
Key points
The original list of 175 inmates approved for pardons and clemency has been trimmed to 120 beneficiaries. (TheCable)
Maryam Sanda, who had been previously included in the pardon list, has now had her full pardon revoked, and her death sentence commuted to a 12-year term instead. (TheCable)
The review and revision were said to be necessary given the severity of certain offences, security implications, and the feelings of victims and society at large. (The Nation Newspaper)
The Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy is now being relocated to the Ministry of Justice, and new guidelines will be issued for the exercise of mercy powers. (saharareporters.com)
What this means
This move signals a recalibration of the federal government’s approach to clemency and pardon, emphasizing stricter scrutiny of the offences eligible for mercy. It also reflects responsiveness to public outcry and civil society pressure over perceived injustices. Observers say the revision may restore some confidence in the justice system and balance between reforming offenders and upholding victims’ rights.
Next steps
The Ministry of Justice, via the Attorney-General of the Federation, is expected to publish detailed guidelines for future pardon exercises. Moreover, the Nigerian Correctional Service will begin implementing the revised list and status of affected inmates.
