BREAKING: We’re yet to take final decision on Maryam Sanda, 81 others despite clemency – FG

The Federal Government has clarified that neither Maryam Sanda nor any of the 81 inmates granted presidential clemency have been released from custody.

The clarification comes amid public backlash over the announcement of President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s decision to approve clemency for inmates convicted of offences including murder, drug trafficking, and illegal mining.

Critics, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, condemned the move, arguing that extending mercy to those convicted of grave crimes “weakened public faith in the criminal-justice system and emboldens criminality.”

Several human rights groups and civil society organisations have also expressed concern over the decision.

However, in a statement issued on Thursday, the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, who chaired the committee that recommended the clemency, said none of the beneficiaries had yet been released.

Acknowledging what he described as the “public’s vigilance and constructive feedback,” Fagbemi noted that it had helped strengthen institutional integrity.

“The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wishes to clarify that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody,” he said.

He added that the process was still undergoing final administrative review to ensure compliance with all legal and procedural requirements before any release orders are signed.

“It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary. This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action,” the minister explained.

According to him, this verification process reflects the government’s commitment to transparency, due diligence, and adherence to the rule of law.

“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. As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” Fagbemi added.

The minister reaffirmed that public engagement remains essential to strengthening accountability and good governance.