BREAKING: Presidential Pardon Exercise Under Review — AGF Fagbemi Declares Possible Changes Ahead

By DocuNews Central | Published: October 17, 2025

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Introduction: Why This Matters

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has announced that the recently publicised Presidential Pardon Exercise is under review and may undergo changes before any release of inmates takes place. Consequently, the process remains in its final administrative stage.

Because the pardon power carries high legal and social stakes, the AGF’s clarification is important. It highlights the need for strong verification and for transparency that reassures citizens and stakeholders alike.

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Legal Framework: Understanding the Presidential Pardon Power

Under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the President may grant pardons, reprieves or commute sentences. However, the constitutional power includes procedural safeguards. For example, the President typically acts after receiving recommendations from the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM) and consulting the Council of State.

Therefore, a parliamentary or advisory review can still identify errors or irregularities before the formal instrument of clemency is issued. This explains why Fagbemi stressed that no inmate has yet been released.

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Background: How the Controversy Started

Reports emerged in early October 2025 that a list of 175 individuals had been prepared for consideration. The list reportedly included posthumous recognitions, commutations and a range of inmates who might qualify for clemency. Immediately, the release of names triggered public debate.

Critics raised questions when the draft list included persons convicted of serious offenses. Meanwhile, families of historical figures expressed concern over the optics of lumping posthumous honors with living convicts. Consequently, calls for immediate review intensified.

Notable Names Mentioned

• Herbert Macaulay — posthumous pardon (family reaction demanded separate handling).
• Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni Nine — symbolic clemency advocated by some civil actors.
• Maryam Sanda — case invoked strong public and media reaction due to the nature of the conviction.

Major news outlets reported on the unfolding story, including Punch, PM News Nigeria and The Guardian. See the DocuNews Central Politics page for a local aggregation of these reports.

AGF Fagbemi’s Clarification: The Review Is Not Final

At a briefing, AGF Lateef Fagbemi explained the current posture: although the Council of State considered the recommendations, no formal clemency instrument has been signed. Therefore, the list remains open to correction.

“The Presidential Pardon is a constitutional mechanism for justice and mercy. However, it must never be used as a political favour. The ongoing review seeks to correct any errors and ensure fairness.” — Lateef Fagbemi (SAN)

He added that the process includes final checks and a thorough verification of each name. In short, the Federal Government aims to balance mercy with accountability.

Public Reaction and Expert Opinion

Reaction varied widely. Some welcomed the AGF’s timely intervention. Others asked why controversial names reached the Council of State at all.

Legal experts, activists and civil society organisations urged full disclosure of criteria used to select beneficiaries. Many demanded that the Ministry of Justice publish clear explanations to avoid the perception of favoritism.

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Risks, Benefits and Policy Implications

Risks

• Public distrust: Poorly handled pardons may erode confidence in justice institutions.
• Security risks: Premature release of some convicts can threaten safety.
• Political fallout: The opposition may use the controversy to attack government credibility.

Benefits (If Reviewed Properly)

• Restored trust: A transparent review can repair public confidence.
• Fairness: Ensures clemency serves rehabilitation and national interest rather than private favour.
• Policy reform: The process can inform better future practices for clemency.

Overall, a robust review could strengthen institutions and set a precedent for transparent governance.

Possible Scenarios and Timeline

Based on current statements and press signals, several outcomes are possible. Below is a quick table showing likely scenarios and consequences.

Scenario	Description	Likely Outcome
Drop controversial names	Remove names that triggered backlash	List trimmed; some releases proceed later
Retain list with conditions	Keep most names but impose monitoring or conditions	Mixed reaction; may reduce some criticism
Complete overhaul	Substantial revision or restart of the process	Major delay; new list with stronger legitimacy
Proceed unchanged	Issue instruments and release all names	Possible protests; trust may drop

Typical timeline steps include final legal checks, public announcement of any changes, issuance of instruments, and controlled release by the Controller-General of Corrections.

Transparency and the Way Forward

Stakeholders have urged that the government adopt measures to make future pardon exercises more credible. Key recommendations include:

1. Publish clear criteria used to determine eligibility for pardon.
2. Disclose the final list with reasons for each inclusion or exclusion.
3. Enable civil oversight by allowing independent review panels where appropriate.
4. Strengthen institutional capacity of PACPM and relevant agencies.

With these steps, clemency can better reflect fairness and the rule of law. In turn, the public will gain confidence that mercy does not sacrifice justice.

Media and Source Note

The unfolding story has been covered by major outlets. For context and corroboration, readers may consult the following publications:

• Punch Newspapers
• PM News Nigeria
• The Guardian (Nigeria)
• Leadership Newspaper
• Daily Post Nigeria

DocuNews Central has aggregated these reports and will continue to update readers as the situation develops.

Conclusion: A Defining Test for Nigeria’s Justice System

The review of the Presidential Pardon exercise presents a test of institutional strength. AGF Fagbemi’s intervention provides a window for correction. Yet, the outcome will depend on transparency, decisive leadership and a commitment to fairness.

DocuNews Central will continue to monitor the review closely, report developments and demand accountability from public officials. Stay informed by visiting DocuNews Central.

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