Fresh indications emerged on Thursday that the presidency is reviewing the recently approved presidential pardon list, with several controversial names likely to be removed before final ratification. Okay News reports that this move follows growing public criticism and resistance from key security and anti-corruption agencies.
The list, submitted by Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (Senior Advocate of Nigeria), was earlier approved by the Council of State. It contained 175 beneficiaries, divided into six categories: full pardons, posthumous pardons (including the Ogoni Nine), honors for victims of the Ogoni Nine, presidential clemency, inmates recommended for sentence reduction, and commuted death sentences.
While the exercise was intended to decongest prisons and promote national reconciliation, its content has stirred controversy due to the inclusion of individuals convicted for violent and financial crimes. The outrage has reignited public debate over the credibility of Nigeria’s pardon system.
Fagbemi clarified on Thursday that the “Presidential Prerogative of Mercy recently announced by the President was still under review and had not been finalised.” He emphasized that no inmate has yet been released and assured Nigerians that legal protocols must be followed before any clemency is implemented.
Anti-graft and security bodies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) are reportedly pressing for the exclusion of some names. Among the most debated beneficiaries are Maryam Sanda, convicted for killing her husband; Major S. Alabi Akubo, jailed for illegal firearm possession; and Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, a notorious kidnap kingpin.
An anonymous presidential aide said, “The list was too wide, and some of the names did not pass the necessary security vetting. Some of them were smuggled in without due process.”
He added that the EFCC and NDLEA warned that releasing certain individuals could undermine ongoing anti-crime and anti-corruption campaigns. “Those whose inclusion created controversy will be expunged,” another senior official confirmed.
Fagbemi, in an Abuja statement, reassured Nigerians that due diligence would guide the process. “The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” he said, appreciating citizens for their vigilance and constructive feedback.
