Tinubu reviews pardon list, excludes drug, human trafficking, kidnapping convicts
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the removal of individuals convicted of serious offences — including kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession of firearms — from the list of beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s prerogative of mercy.
The directive was disclosed on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Onanuga said the decision followed consultations with the Council of State and a review of public feedback on the initial list.
“After consultations with the Council of State and public opinion on the matter, the President directed a further review of the initially approved list, in exercise of his discretionary powers under Section 175(1)&(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended),” the statement read.
As a result, individuals convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug-related offences, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession of firearms/arms dealing were struck out from the list. Some other previously pardoned inmates had their sentences reduced rather than fully waived.
The Presidency described the review as necessary due to the grave security implications of the offences committed, as well as the need to consider the feelings of victims, encourage law enforcement agencies, honour bilateral obligations, and uphold justice as a balance among the offender, the victim, and the state.
“The approved list of eligible beneficiaries has been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in line with the duly signed instruments of release,” the statement added.
