President Bola Tinubu has directed the removal of individuals convicted of serious crimes — including kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession of firearms — from the list of beneficiaries under the federal government’s prerogative of mercy.
This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
According to Onanuga, the president’s decision followed “consultations with the Council of State and public opinion,” reflecting his administration’s stance against granting clemency to offenders involved in crimes that pose severe threats to national security and social stability.
The presidential prerogative of mercy allows for the release or reduction of sentences for certain prisoners.
READ ALSO: 2027: Zulum Reaffirms Borno’s Loyalty to APC, Mobilises for Tinubu’s Re-election
However, Tinubu’s latest directive signals a more stringent approach to ensure that only deserving individuals benefit from the exercise.
More details are expected to follow as the government outlines the revised list of eligible beneficiaries.