KEY POINTS

• Security agencies object to controversial names on presidential pardon list.
• Presidency reviewing list to remove unqualified beneficiaries.
• Fagbemi assures Nigerians that no inmate has been released yet.

The Federal Government may drop some names from the presidential pardon list approved by the Council of State, following mounting public outrage.

The list, which was given by Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Attorney-General of the Federation, includes people who had been convicted of crimes ranging from white-collar crimes to violent crimes. This generated a lot of problems all around the country.

The pardon, which is generally offered on national holidays, was supposed to reduce the number of people in jail and promote peace. But the fact that those who have been found guilty of murder, kidnapping, and corruption are included has made some question how reliable the process is.

Security agencies flag controversial names in presidential pardon list

Multiple security and anti-graft agencies have reportedly objected to the inclusion of some convicts. Sources said the EFCC, NDLEA, and ICPC raised red flags, claiming that certain names were “smuggled” into the list without approval from the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.
A senior presidential aide said some offenders, including those convicted of killing security agents and kidnapping, “can never be released.”

Officials disclosed that the agencies warned that releasing such individuals could undermine the fight against corruption and organized crime.
“The list was too wide,” one source said, adding that only names that meet security and legal criteria would remain.

Final review underway for presidential pardon list

Attorney-General Fagbemi clarified that the clemency process is not yet finalized and no inmate has been released. He also said the government is conducting a “final administrative review”. This is to ensure that only deserving convicts benefit from the President’s mercy.

“This verification is part of standard protocol and ensures transparency,” Fagbemi said in a statement. Therefore he added that the review phase reflects the administration’s commitment to due diligence and public accountability.

Officials confirmed that the list would be trimmed before the official instruments of release are issued.
The presidency is therefore expected to publish a revised version once all legal checks are complete.