This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said the decision followed consultations with the Council of State and a review of public opinion.
Tinubu had earlier approved clemency for about 175 individuals, including several convicted for serious offences. However, after public criticism, the President ordered a fresh review of the list.
“Following consultations with the Council of State and public opinion on the matter, the President directed a further review of the initially approved list for consideration in furtherance of the President’s discretionary powers under Section 175(1) &(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended),” the statement read.
As a result, convicts involved in kidnapping, drug-related crimes, human trafficking, fraud, and illegal possession of firearms were removed from the list. Others had their sentences commuted rather than fully pardoned.
Despite the review, 15 people were still granted clemency, including former lawmaker Farouk Lawan, as well as posthumous pardons for Herbert Macaulay, General Mamman Vatsa, and Ken Saro-Wiwa.
Tinubu said the review became necessary due to the “seriousness and security implications” of some offences and the need to maintain public confidence in the justice system. He added that justice must serve “the accused, the victims, and society at large.”
The President also directed that the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy be relocated from the Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice to ensure better oversight.
Furthermore, Tinubu instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue new guidelines for the future exercise of presidential mercy, mandating consultations with relevant prosecuting agencies before any pardon is granted.
He commended Nigerians for their “constructive feedback and engagement” and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial reform and transparency in governance.
