ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal Government has clarified that none of the 82 inmates recently granted presidential clemency by President Bola Tinubu — including Maryam Sanda — has been released from detention.
The clarification follows widespread outrage over the announcement that the government had approved clemency for prisoners convicted of offences such as murder, drug trafficking, and illegal mining.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar had sharply criticised the move, saying it “weakens public faith in the criminal justice system and emboldens criminality.”
Similarly, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), described the decision as “an abuse of the presidential power of mercy” and “a national disgrace.”
Various human rights groups and civil society organisations had also condemned the decision, urging the government to prioritise justice and the rule of law.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 16, 2025, Lateef Fagbemi, Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, who chaired the committee that recommended clemency for the convicts, said the process was still undergoing final administrative review.
“The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wishes to clarify that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody,” the statement read.
“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.”
Fagbemi explained that the final phase of the process — following approval by the Council of State — involves the issuance of formal instruments authorising the Controller-General of Corrections to execute the release.
“This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded for necessary action,” he said.
The justice minister emphasised that the verification process was part of a standard protocol designed to uphold transparency, due diligence, and institutional integrity.
“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,” he said.
“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 added that the government appreciated the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, saying such engagement reflected Nigerians’ commitment to justice and accountability.
The clemency list, which includes 82 inmates, drew intense scrutiny after reports suggested that those convicted for serious crimes — including Maryam Sanda, sentenced to death in 2020 for killing her husband — were among the beneficiaries.
The government’s clarification appears aimed at quelling public anger and reaffirming that the presidential power of mercy is exercised within strict legal parameters.
Officials say that no inmate will be released until all background checks and legal vetting are complete.
