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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted presidential pardon and clemency to 175 individuals, including convicted drug traffickers, military officers, and high-profile inmates—triggering a wave of national debate.
Who Was Pardoned?
Among those granted clemency:
- Major Suleiman Alabi Akubo, sentenced to life for selling over 7,000 stolen military weapons to Niger Delta militants. His sentence was reduced to 20 years due to “good conduct and remorsefulness”.
- Maryam Sanda, convicted of homicide.
- Convicted drug traffickers and white-collar criminals, whose release has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders
Backlash from Opposition
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) condemned the move, calling it a “national disgrace” and a moral failure that undermines Nigeria’s justice system. They argue that the presidential prerogative of mercy should not be used to reward criminal behavior.
Government’s Justification
The Presidency, through Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, stated that the pardons reflect Tinubu’s commitment to justice, rehabilitation, and correcting historical wrongs. The list was approved by the National Council of State and recommended by the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by Attorney-General Prince Lateef Fagbemi
Is this a bold step toward reform—or a dangerous precedent?
Nigerians are divided, and the conversation is far from over.
Share your thoughts in the comments. Should presidential mercy be reformed
