By Nations Curiosity| October 29, 2025
President Tinubu grants clemency to selected convicts, moves Mercy Committee to Justice Ministry, and directs new pardon guidelines for transparency.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally approved and signed the Instruments of Clemency and Pardons, granting mercy and commutation of sentences to selected convicts across Nigeria. The move represents the latest exercise of his constitutional power of prerogative of mercy under Section 175(1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Following consultations with the Council of State and a broad review of public feedback, President Tinubu ordered a reassessment of the previously approved list of beneficiaries. As a result, individuals convicted of severe crimes including kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and illegal possession of firearms were removed from the clemency list. Others had their sentences commuted instead of being fully pardoned.
According to the Presidency, this review was guided by considerations of national security, justice, and public sensitivity toward victims of crime. The decision also aims to boost law enforcement morale and uphold Nigeria’s obligations under international and bilateral agreements.
“Justice must balance the interests of the accused, the victim, and the state,” the statement emphasized, underscoring the government’s effort to uphold fairness in the justice system.
The approved list of beneficiaries has been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) for immediate implementation in line with the duly signed release instruments.
In a related directive, President Tinubu 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. This reform, he said, would enhance accountability and alignment with global best practices.
Additionally, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice has been instructed to develop new guidelines for the exercise of presidential mercy. These guidelines will require mandatory consultation with prosecuting agencies before any future clemency decisions, ensuring that only deserving individuals benefit.
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The President also expressed appreciation for the constructive engagement from the public and stakeholders, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to judicial reform and a transparent justice system.
“Our goal is a fair, efficient, and humane justice system that strengthens public confidence in the rule of law,” President Tinubu stated through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
