The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that no inmate granted clemency under the recent presidential prerogative of mercy exercise has yet been released from custody.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Fagbemi explained that the exercise is still undergoing final administrative review to ensure full compliance with legal and procedural standards before any release instrument is signed.
“The process remains at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued,” the statement read.
The clarification follows public speculation that some inmates had already regained their freedom after President Bola Tinubu reportedly approved clemency for 175 convicts earlier this month based on the recommendation of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy and the Council of State.
Fagbemi stressed that the current stage of the process is a routine verification step that precedes the formal issuance of the instrument of release to the Nigeria Correctional Service.
“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.
“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.”
According to the Attorney-General, the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence is at the heart of this verification phase.
He added that there is no delay in the process, as the administration is determined to uphold the rule of law in carrying out the presidential mercy initiative.
“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,” Fagbemi stated.
The Minister also expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their vigilance and constructive engagement with the justice process, describing public scrutiny as a healthy contribution to democratic governance.
“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,” the statement added. “Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance.”
The Presidential Prerogative of Mercy allows the President to grant pardon, respite, or commutation of sentences to convicted persons under Section 175(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
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