Presidential Clemency Process Still Under Review, Not Yet Final – AGF Fagbemi
By: Zagazola Makama
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that no inmate has been released under the recent exercise of the President’s prerogative of mercy.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, Fagbemi explained that the process is still at the final administrative review stage to ensure full compliance with legal and procedural requirements.
He said the verification process, which follows approval by the Council of State, allows for a final review before the official instrument of release is issued for implementation.
“The last stage of the exercise, after the Council of State’s approval, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary,” Fagbemi said.
“This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before forwarding the instrument to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action,” he added.
The minister emphasised that the ongoing review is a standard protocol designed to uphold transparency, due diligence, and fairness in the exercise of presidential clemency.
According to him, the government welcomes public vigilance and constructive feedback, noting that such engagement demonstrates citizens’ commitment to justice and good governance.
“There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy,” the statement read.
Fagbemi assured that the public would be duly informed once all legal and procedural checks are concluded, reiterating that “the rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness.”
