By Seyi Odewale
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that no inmate has yet been released under the ongoing Presidential Prerogative of Mercy exercise, contrary to reports suggesting that some beneficiaries have regained their freedom.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, Fagbemi explained that the process was still at the final administrative review stage and that every name approved for clemency was undergoing a standard verification to ensure compliance with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release could be issued.
He emphasised that the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy, a constitutional power allowing the President to grant clemency or pardon to deserving inmates, is being implemented with the highest level of diligence to safeguard transparency and prevent abuse.
“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 statement read.
Fagbemi noted that the last stage of the exercise comes after approval by the Council of State, and involves the preparation and signing of the official instruments for each qualified beneficiary.
These instruments, he said, are forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for execution once the verification is completed.
He stressed that the review process is not an indication of delay but rather a measure to guarantee fairness and uphold the rule of law.
“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 rule of law does not rush—it ensures fairness,” Fagbemi stated.
The Attorney-General also commended Nigerians for their vigilance and constructive feedback on the exercise, noting that such public engagement strengthens institutional integrity and reinforces transparency in governance.
He assured that as soon as all legal and administrative checks are concluded, the Ministry of Justice will announce the official list of those granted clemency and authorise their release through the appropriate correctional authorities.
The Presidential Prerogative of Mercy Committee, which periodically reviews cases of inmates eligible for pardon, had recently concluded its recommendations to the President.
However, Fagbemi’s clarification underscores that the implementation phase remains incomplete pending final legal vetting.
