A list of 175 convicts and ex-convicts approved by Nigeria’s Council of State for a Presidential Prerogative of Mercy is reportedly facing a final review, with high-profile and controversial names potentially set to be removed amid public and security agency outcry.
The presidential pardon, intended to mark national reconciliation and decongest prisons, has ignited debate over the transparency of the clemency process.
The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), clarified on Thursday that despite the Council of State’s approval, no beneficiary has been released from custody as the process is still at the “final administrative stage.”
Controversy over High-Profile Inclusions
While some names, like anti-colonial figure Herbert Macaulay and the posthumous pardon of the Ogoni Nine (including Ken Saro-Wiwa), were widely accepted, the inclusion of individuals linked to violent crimes and corruption has generated significant public criticism.
Among the controversial figures listed were:
- Maryam Sanda, convicted in 2017 for the fatal stabbing of her husband.
- Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, a notorious kidnapper who operated across several states.
- Individuals convicted of killing security agents, money laundering, and drug trafficking.
Security Agencies Raise Objections
Reports indicate that Nigeria’s anti-graft and security agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), have formally objected to the list.
Sources suggest that some names were “smuggled in” and did not fully meet the criteria of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.
A presidential aide, speaking anonymously, confirmed the security agencies’ pushback, stating they warned that releasing certain convicts could “undermine the ongoing fight against corruption and organised crime.”
Another official confirmed that the final list will likely be “trimmed to reflect only those who genuinely deserve the President’s mercy,” with those whose inclusion created controversy expected to be expunged.
The AGF, Mr. Fagbemi, concluded that the final review is part of standard protocol to ensure due diligence and compliance with legal requirements.
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