President Bola Tinubu has reversed the inclusion of Maryam Sanda, who was convicted for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, along with others convicted of various capital offences, from the presidential pardon list, following public criticism from victims’ families and Nigerians over the nature of the beneficiaries.
Sanda, who had already spent six years and eight months at the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre awaiting a death-by-hanging sentence, had her term commuted to 12 years by the President.
The 37-year-old woman was originally granted clemency on compassionate grounds, considering the best interests of her children, her good conduct, remorsefulness, and reformed lifestyle.
Aside from revoking Sanda’s pardon, Tinubu removed 68 names from the 175 initially included on the list.
According to the President’s Special Adviser, Bayo Onanuga on Wednesday, his action followed consultations with the Council of State, public opinion, and a review of the initially approved list, in furtherance of the President’s discretionary powers under Section 175(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
He added that the removed names included individuals convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug-related offences, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession of firearms or arms dealing.
Onanuga noted that the approved list of eligible beneficiaries has been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in line with the duly signed instruments of release.
“This action became necessary in view of the seriousness and security implications of some of the offences, the need to be sensitive to the feelings of victims and society at large, the need to boost the morale of law enforcement agencies, and adherence to bilateral obligations. The concept of justice as a three-way traffic for the accused, the victim, and the State/Society also guided the review,” he explained.
To ensure that future exercises meet public expectations and best practices, Tinubu has directed the immediate relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice.
In addition, Onanuga said, the President has instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue appropriate Guidelines for the Exercise of the Power of Prerogative of Mercy, including compulsory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies.
“This will ensure that only individuals who fully meet the stipulated legal and procedural requirements will benefit from the issuance of instruments of release,” he added.
“The President appreciated the constructive feedback and engagement from stakeholders and the public on this matter,” Onanuga said, adding that Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s broader commitment to judicial reforms and improving the administration of justice in Nigeria.
