Presidency explains why Tinubu granted clemency to 175 convicts

By Kunle Sanni –

The Presidency has explained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to grant clemency to 175 convicts and former convicts was driven by compassion, justice, and the need to give genuinely reformed Nigerians a second chance.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the clemency followed a careful review and recommendation by the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).

The Presidency said the beneficiaries were considered based on remorse, good conduct, advanced age, ill health, and active participation in rehabilitation and educational programmes while serving their sentences.

“The President approved clemency for individuals who have shown genuine repentance, discipline, and readiness to reintegrate into society. This act of mercy is rooted in justice and compassion,” the statement read.

Tinubu, according to the Presidency, was particularly moved by reports from correctional facilities indicating that several inmates had embraced education and vocational training, with some earning degrees through the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) while in custody.

The statement added that some pardons were granted on humanitarian grounds, especially for elderly and terminally ill inmates whose conditions required leniency.

In addition to serving convicts, the President also approved posthumous pardons for historical figures such as Sir Herbert Macaulay, Major-General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, and Ken Saro-Wiwa with the Ogoni Eight, describing the move as part of efforts to heal old wounds and promote national reconciliation.

“This administration believes that while justice must be served, it should also give room for redemption. Those who have reformed themselves deserve a chance to start afresh,” the Presidency stated.