Fagbemi reveals surge in presidential pardon requests

Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has disclosed a significant surge in applications for presidential pardons and clemency received by his office.

Fagbemi made this revelation during the inauguration of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM) in Abuja, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume.

The committee, tasked with reviewing applications for clemency and recommending eligible individuals for presidential pardons, is a key initiative aimed at addressing prison overcrowding and fostering rehabilitation.

The AGF, who chairs the 15-member committee, clarified its constitutional mandate:

“Our assignment is not a review of court decisions, but a constitutional responsibility to assist President Bola Tinubu in exercising his prerogative of mercy, as enshrined in Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).” He further emphasised the importance of the committee’s role:

The PACPM, which will serve a four-year term, includes representatives from key institutions and organisations, such as the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Correctional Service, National Human Rights Commission, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).

Other members include Justice Augustine Utsaha, Prof. Alkasum Abba, Chief Akinlolu Olujinmi (SAN), Prof. Nike Sidikat Ijaiya, and the Director of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, who serves as secretary.