Presidency says review guided by national security, victim sensitivity, and “three-way justice” principle

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a sweeping review of the Federal Government’s clemency list, removing convicts found guilty of serious offences such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and unlawful possession of firearms.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the decision followed careful consideration of the security implications of releasing certain offenders and the need to uphold justice for victims and society.

“This action became necessary in view of the seriousness and security implications of some of the offences, the need to be sensitive to the feelings of the victims of the crimes and society in general, the need to boost the morale of law enforcement agencies and adherence to bilateral obligations,” Onanuga stated.

“The concept of justice as a three-way traffic for the accused, the victim, and the state/society, also guided the review.”

High-Risk Offenders Removed

According to the Presidency, the revised clemency list excludes individuals convicted of crimes that pose a clear threat to national security, including kidnapping, terrorism-related offences, and drug-linked crimes.

Some of those earlier granted full pardons will now have their sentences commuted rather than being released outright. The new list has been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation.

President Tinubu has also approved the transfer of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy from the Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice to ensure stronger oversight.

Additionally, the Attorney-General of the Federation has been directed to issue new clemency guidelines, mandating full consultation with law-enforcement and prosecuting agencies before future recommendations are made.

Public Backing and Legal Balance

The announcement follows public concerns over the initial pardon list, which included offenders convicted of violent and drug-related crimes. Civil society groups and security analysts had warned that such clemencies could demoralize officers and undermine ongoing anti-crime operations.

Observers have welcomed the President’s decision, describing it as a corrective measure that aligns justice with public safety. Analysts also note that the move addresses Nigeria’s bilateral obligations with foreign partners on transnational crime and narcotics control.

“The review reflects a balanced approach between mercy and accountability,” said a senior justice ministry source. “It protects victims, sustains security morale, and reaffirms that executive discretion must serve justice, not sentiment.”

Restoring Confidence in the Justice System

By emphasizing the three-way justice principle  for the accused, the victim, and the state  the Presidency aims to rebuild confidence in the rule of law and reinforce the moral authority of Nigeria’s justice system.

The revised list of approved beneficiaries is expected to be published in the coming days, following final clearance from the Ministry of Justice.