Amid public uproar sparked by President Bola Tinubu’s pardon and clemency for drug traffickers, murderers, and other convicted criminals, Attorney-General Lateef says the list of the 175 beneficiaries is still subject to a final administrative review.

Mr Fagbemi, who chaired the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, said this in a statement on Thursday, clarifying that none of the beneficiaries have been released from custody.

“The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wishes to clarify that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody,” Mr Fagbemi said.

He added, “The process remains at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued.”

The attorney general noted that the last stage of the process, after the list’s approval by the Council of States, “is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary.”

“This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action.

“This verification process is part of the standard protocol and reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence,” Mr Fagbemi said.

Speaking on criticisms that trailed the presidential pardon, Mr Fagbemi said he “appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity.”

“Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance,” Mr Fagbemi said.

Last week Thursday, Mr Tinubu granted presidential pardons to former House of Representatives member Farouk Lawan, convicted of a fuel subsidy scam; Nweke Francis Chibueze, serving a life sentence for cocaine trafficking; and several others.

Since then, his government has been criticised for emboldened criminality by pardoning drug traffickers, murderers, kidnappers, and other criminals.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the pardon and clemency as a “reckless” and dangerous move that emboldens criminality, recalling the president’s involvement in a cocaine-related scandal in the U.S. in the 90s.

Also, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) condemned the development, calling it a national disgrace and a move that portrays Nigeria as a country sympathising with drug dealers before the international community.