The Federal Government has begun a formal review of the recent presidential pardon granted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to over 170 convicted individuals, following rising public outcry and legal concerns over the scope and transparency of the exercise.
The review, according to sources within the Ministry of Justice, is aimed at reassessing the processes that led to the selection of beneficiaries, amid fears that the clemency may have undermined the rule of law and sent the wrong signal in a country grappling with insecurity and corruption.
The pardons, which were officially announced earlier this month, were facilitated by the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy and approved by the National Council of State.
However, the inclusion of individuals convicted for high-profile crimes such as drug trafficking, illegal arms possession, and financial crimes has drawn sharp criticism from legal practitioners, civil society organizations, and opposition leaders.
Government’s Position
A senior official in the Ministry of Justice, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the review is already underway and that its outcome may lead to a possible reevaluation of some of the pardons issued.
“The government is listening to the concerns raised across the country. The review process will help us ensure that the clemency process aligns with justice, national security, and public interest,” the official said.
He added that while the President’s constitutional power to grant pardons remains unquestioned, the government wants to ensure future exercises do not erode public trust or reward impunity.
Criticism Mounts
The backlash has been particularly vocal from rights groups and legal experts, who argue that some of the beneficiaries had not shown genuine remorse or served significant portions of their sentences.
Others questioned why the pardon list was not made publicly available in full, raising fears of political interference or preferential treatment.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar previously described the mass pardon as “reckless and poorly thought out,” warning that it could embolden criminal elements and discourage law enforcement agencies.
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Inibehe Effiong, a constitutional lawyer and public affairs analyst, also criticized the move, calling it “a betrayal of victims” and “a slap in the face of justice.”
Public Accountability in Focus
As the review gets underway, analysts say the Tinubu administration faces a critical test of governance — balancing compassion with accountability.
“The power of mercy must be exercised with caution. If it’s seen as a political favour or a shortcut to impunity, it risks damaging the very fabric of justice,” said Dr. Kemi Ayoola, a criminologist at the University of Lagos.
This review, observers believe, may shape how future clemency is granted — not only under Tinubu’s presidency but as a precedent for administrations to come.
