Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that no inmate has been released under the ongoing exercise of the President’s prerogative of mercy, as the process is still at the review stage.
Fagbemi explained that the clemency exercise, recently approved by the Council of State, has not reached final implementation, as all names and recommendations are currently undergoing standard administrative and legal scrutiny.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the AGF said: “The last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for implementation concerning each beneficiary. This affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before forwarding it to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action.”
He emphasized that the verification process is part of due process designed to guarantee transparency and prevent errors. “This is a standard protocol reflecting the government’s commitment to diligence and fairness,” Fagbemi noted.
Appreciating public vigilance and feedback, the Minister said Nigerians’ interest in justice strengthens institutional integrity. “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,” he stated.
Fagbemi assured that once all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. “The rule of law does not rust it ensures fairness,” he added.