By Sadeeq Kamsela, Abuja
In what has become a norm, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday, flipped on another pronouncement as he reduces the number of criminals slated for presidential pardon by more than 80%, which the list reducing from 175 to 34.
The President, who signed instruments of clemency and pardon, said the decision was informed by citizens’ constructive engagement on the issue, which had generated widespready criticism over the number of hardened criminals included.
Among those whose names on the list generated uproar, was Kelvin Oniarah, a Kokori indigene, who carried out daring kidnap operation and even forced the monarch of the kingdom out of the town over 13 years ago.
The former list also included drug dealers, murders and other convicts, whose names generated wildspread condemnations.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, said President Tinubu ordered a thorough review of the initial list earlier approved, invoking his discretionary authority under Sections 175 (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The review resulted in the removal of individuals convicted of grave offences such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession or dealing in firearms. Others who were initially recommended for full pardon had their sentences reduced or commuted.
“The decision was guided by the seriousness and security implications of some offences, the need to respect the rights and feelings of victims, boost the morale of law enforcement agencies, and uphold Nigeria’s bilateral obligations,” the statement read.
It added that the President’s cautious approach was also influenced by the principle of justice as a “three-way traffic” — balancing the rights of the accused, the victims, and society at large.
The approved list of beneficiaries has been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in line with the signed instruments of release.
As part of structural reforms tied to the exercise, President Tinubu directed the immediate relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice.
He also instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue new guidelines for future clemency exercises, mandating compulsory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies to ensure that only deserving individuals benefit.
President Tinubu thanked Nigerians for their constructive engagement on the issue and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to comprehensive judicial reforms and the fair administration of justice across the country.
