Tinubu Revises List of Convicts Considered for Pardon, Drops 55 Inmates and Commutes Sentences of Some Convicts

Strategic Insights -

President Bola Tinubu has revised the list of convicted persons considered for pardon, dropping 55 inmates and commuting the sentences of some convicts. The revision was made after widespread criticism of the initial list, which included names of individuals convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug-related offenses, and human trafficking. Tinubu has directed the immediate relocation of the secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice. The president has also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue guidelines for the exercise of the power of prerogative of mercy, which includes compulsory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies.

Key Takeaways:

  • The initial list of 175 inmates for pardon was revised to 120 after public criticism.
  • Tinubu dropped 55 inmates from the list, including those convicted of drug-related offenses and murder.
  • The revised list includes 15 inmates who were granted pardon and 15 inmates who received clemency.
  • The president commuted the death sentence of Maryam Sanda to 12 years in prison after reviewing her case.
  • Tinubu directed the relocation of the secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy to the Federal Ministry of Justice.
  • The president has also directed the Attorney-General to issue guidelines for the exercise of the power of prerogative of mercy.

Statistics:

  • 175 inmates were initially listed for pardon.
  • The revised list includes 120 inmates.
  • 55 inmates were dropped from the list.
  • 15 inmates were granted pardon.
  • 15 inmates received clemency.
  • Maryam Sanda's death sentence was commuted to 12 years imprisonment.

Sources:

  • This Day News, "Tinubu Revises List of Convicts Considered for Pardon, Drops 55 Inmates and Commutes Sentences of Some Convicts", October 2025.
  • This Day News, "President Tinubu Orders Immediate Relocation of PCPM Secretariat", October 2025.