Lateef Fagbemi, Nigeria’s AGF
Amid opprobrium trailing the presidential pardon granted to some prison inmates by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu last Thursday in exercise of his prerogative of mercy, the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, senior advocate of Nigeria, (SAN) came out with a statement on Thursday evening saying that the government was taking another look at the list.
Fagbemi, in a personally signed statement, clarified that no inmate approved for clemency had been released from custody as the process was subject to change.
Newsmata.com.ng reports that many Nigerians had expressed outrage at the pardon granted a large number of drug offenders, illegal miners, and murderers, especially Maryam Sanda who brutally and premeditatedly killed her husband and was sentenced to death.
The AGF’s statement said it was “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,” adding that “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.”
Noting that the verification process was part of the standard protocol and reflected the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence, Fagbemi said, “The Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance.
“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. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness”.