The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness.”
By Deborah Hassan
365Daily – Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that no inmate has been released under the recent exercise of the President’s prerogative of mercy, as the process remains at the review stage.
There has been public outcry following the pardon granted to many inmates by the president, with many Nigerians fuming over the mercy granted to convicted murderers and drug barons.
Fagbemi, in a statement issued on Thursday, said the exercise has not reached its final phase, explaining that it is currently undergoing standard administrative verification to ensure all names and recommendations comply with legal and procedural requirements.
According to him, “no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody.”
The Attorney-General said the final stage of the exercise, after the Council of State’s approval, involves the issuance of instruments for implementing the decision concerning each beneficiary. He noted that this phase provides room for remedial corrections before the final list is transmitted 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,” he added.
Fagbemi also dismissed claims of delay, saying the process was being guided strictly by the law to prevent errors and ensure fairness.
“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,” the statement read.
The Minister commended the public for its vigilance and constructive feedback, describing such engagement as a sign of Nigerians’ commitment to justice and good governance.
He assured that once all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public would be duly informed.