President Bola Tinubu has ordered the review and exclusion of persons convicted of kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking and illegal arms possession from the federal pardon list.

‎Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

‎He said the decision followed consultations with the Council of State and consideration of public opinion on the matter.

By this review, the earlier pardon granted Maryam Sanda, convicted in 2020, for the killing of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, has been revoked.

‎Mr Onanuga stated, “Following consultations with the Council of State and public opinion, the President directed a further review of the initially approved list in line with his powers under Section 175(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Consequently, certain persons convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug-related offences, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession of firearms were deleted from the list. Others who had earlier been pardoned had their sentences commuted.”

‎Mr Tinubu said the action became necessary in view of the gravity of the offences and the need to remain sensitive to victims and society at large.

‎He added that the move would strengthen law enforcement morale and Nigeria’s compliance with bilateral obligations.

‎ “The concept of justice as a three-way traffic for the accused, the victim, and the state also guided the review,” he said.

‎The approved list of eligible beneficiaries has been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in line with the duly signed instruments of release.‎

‎Mr Onanuga said the President also directed the relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Ministry of Special Duties to the Ministry of Justice.

‎Mr Tinubu further instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue new guidelines for exercising the prerogative of mercy, including mandatory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies.

‎He said the measure would ensure that only qualified persons benefit from future pardon exercises.

‎Mr Tinubu appreciated the constructive feedback from stakeholders and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms and improved justice delivery.

(NAN)