Akande Seeks Probe of Controversial Presidential Pardon List

Akande Seeks Probe of Controversial Presidential Pardon List

Former presidential aide, Laolu Akande, has called for a thorough investigation into the controversy surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s recent clemency list, describing the episode as a national embarrassment that questions due process in governance.

Akande, who served as spokesman to former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, made the call while speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday. He commended President Tinubu for ordering a review of the list and transferring the Prerogative of Mercy Committee from the Ministry of Special Duties to the Ministry of Justice, but insisted that those responsible for the initial blunder must be held accountable.

“This matter cannot be swept under the carpet,” Akande said. “There must be an investigation because this is a national shame. We should be asking what really transpired at the Council of State. Was due diligence followed at all?”

The former aide wondered how names of convicted drug offenders and others facing serious criminal charges found their way into the original list, despite existing international collaboration that led to their prosecution.

He noted that the scandal has dented Nigeria’s image abroad and called for transparency in explaining how such a sensitive list was compiled.

Akande also faulted the Council of State for allegedly failing to scrutinise the list before giving approval, stressing that members of the council share responsibility with the presidency.

“The Constitution doesn’t exempt the Council of State from accountability. With a list containing as many as 175 names, there should have been a red flag. It is not enough to just endorse whatever is brought to the table,” he added.

While praising Tinubu for acknowledging the error and revising the list, Akande maintained that corrective steps must go beyond administrative adjustments.

“Someone caused this embarrassment. If we don’t correct it properly, it will happen again,” he warned.

Beyond the pardon controversy, Akande also weighed in on other national issues. He urged the federal government to consider a political solution to the case of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), saying the matter has implications for national unity.

“You can’t completely dismiss a political solution,” he said. “While Kanu must face justice for his actions, Nigeria must also seek peaceful and unifying approaches to resolve lingering grievances.”

Commenting on the alleged coup attempt and the reported military raid on the residence of former Petroleum Minister Timipre Sylva, Akande urged the authorities to communicate transparently with Nigerians.

“The public deserves honest information from security agencies, not half-truths or denials,” he said.

He further challenged Sylva to give a clear account of funds approved for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries during his tenure, emphasizing that transparency in governance remains essential for public trust.