By Chinenye Onwusonye
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that no inmate has been released under the recent exercise of the President’s prerogative of mercy, following public outcry over the process.
Fagbemi, in a statement issued on Thursday 16th October 2025, availed Daily Nigerian Horn,said the clemency exercise was still undergoing final administrative review and had not reached the stage of implementation. He explained that the verification process was part of the government’s standard procedure to ensure that only eligible persons benefit from the presidential mercy.
According to the Attorney-General, the review includes a final assessment to confirm that all names and recommendations comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any release order is issued.
“The process remains at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued,” Fagbemi said.
He noted that the last phase of the exercise, which follows the approval of the Council of State, involves the issuance of formal instruments of release to the Controller-General of Correction Services, for necessary action. This stage, he added, provides an opportunity for remedial checks before final implementation.
Fagbemi assured Nigerians that the ongoing scrutiny was not a delay but a reflection of the administration’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and 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. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” he stated. The Attorney-General also commended Nigerians for their vigilance and constructive feedback, describing public engagement as a vital component of accountability and good governance.
He urged citizens to remain patient as the verification continues, promising that the public would be duly informed once all legal and procedural checks are concluded.
