Tinubu Signs Clemency Instruments, Drops Convicts of Heinous Crimes— Mercy Secretariat Moves to Justice Ministry

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the instruments of release completing the exercise of his constitutional prerogative of mercy for selected convicts.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday, the Presidency said the President acted after consultations with the Council of State and in response to public sentiments, ordering a further review of the initial list in line with Section 175(1)&(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

According to the statement, persons convicted for grave offences — including kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, unlawful possession of firearms and arms dealing — were struck out. Some others earlier pencilled for clemency had their sentences merely commuted.

The Presidency said the decision reflected the seriousness of the offences, their security implications, sensitivity to victims, morale of security agencies and Nigeria’s bilateral obligations — adding that justice must serve the accused, the victim and the state.

The list of cleared beneficiaries has been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service for enforcement.

The statement further disclosed that President Tinubu has ordered the relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice.

He also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue new guidelines for future mercy exercises, with compulsory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies to ensure that only duly qualified persons benefit.

Onanuga said the President appreciated the robust feedback from the public and restated his commitment to broader judicial reforms and improved justice administration nationwide.