The Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has explained that the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy process is still ongoing and has not yet resulted in the release of any inmates.
Speaking in Abuja during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, Fagbemi said the initiative remains in its final administrative phase — a stage that involves detailed verification of names, records, and recommendations before any release order can be issued.
He stated that after the Council of State gives its approval, the final step is the preparation and issuance of formal instruments authorising the release of each qualified inmate. This, according to him, is necessary to ensure complete compliance with the law and to correct any potential errors before implementation.
“It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary,” he said.
Fagbemi added that this phase is not a delay, but rather an integral part of due process that reflects the government’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and accountability.
“This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action. This verification process is part of the standard protocol and demonstrates the government’s dedication to doing things properly,” he explained.
The minister appreciated the public’s concern and participation, saying such engagement shows that citizens are deeply invested in issues of justice, equity, and governance.
“Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance,” he said.
Fagbemi reassured Nigerians that once the verification process is completed and all legal criteria are satisfied, the release of eligible inmates will be made public.
“There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy. As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed,” he added.
The Presidential Prerogative of Mercy is a constitutional mechanism that allows the President to grant pardons, commutations, or clemency to deserving prisoners, based on recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy and approval from the Council of State.
Legal observers say the current review underscores President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to upholding due process and ensuring that every exercise of executive clemency aligns with the principles of justice, rule of law, and human rights.
The initiative is also expected to complement ongoing reforms within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), aimed at decongesting prisons and promoting rehabilitation rather than punishment.
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