Table of Contents
- Statement from Femi Falana
- Overview of Presidential Pardon
- Constitutional Authority
- Categories of Pardonees
- Recommendation to State Governors
Human rights attorney Femi Falana has called on the Federal Government to retract and reassess the list of individuals recently granted presidential pardon by President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement released on Thursday evening, Falana emphasized that this action is essential for the sake of justice and national ethics.
“Following the recommendation from the Prerogative of Mercy Committee, which is chaired by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi SAN, President Bola Tinubu has recently issued pardons to 175 individuals convicted of various offenses.
“It is undeniable that the President is authorized, under section 175 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to grant pardons, reprieves, and commutations of sentences to individuals convicted of any offense established by an Act of the National Assembly.
“The list of those pardoned includes individuals convicted of political offenses, drug addiction and trafficking, armed robbery, and terrorism, as well as those found guilty of state offenses such as culpable homicide, murder, and fraud,” the statement noted.
He recommended that the Prerogative of Mercy Committee advise state governors to review cases of those convicted of state offenses in accordance with Section 212 of the Nigerian Constitution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of the Prerogative of Mercy Committee?
The Prerogative of Mercy Committee is responsible for reviewing cases and recommending individuals for presidential pardon based on various factors, including their convictions and conduct.
Who can be granted a presidential pardon in Nigeria?
In Nigeria, the President has the authority to grant pardons to individuals convicted of offenses created by an Act of the National Assembly, as outlined in the Constitution.
What types of offenses were included in the recent presidential pardon?
The recent presidential pardon included individuals convicted of various offenses, including political offenses, drug trafficking, armed robbery, terrorism, and state offenses like homicide and fraud.
