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The Digest:

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has condemned the recent presidential pardon exercise, labeling it an embarrassing and poorly handled process that exposed the country to ridicule. In a television interview, the senior advocate argued the list was fundamentally flawed, including undeserving individuals and violating constitutional provisions.

Key Points:
  • Femi Falana described the presidential pardon list as an embarrassment.
  • He stated the process violated constitutional provisions from the outset.
  • The list included individuals recently convicted of serious offences.
  • Falana highlighted a case of someone convicted in April 2025 after an 11-year trial.
  • He noted the list unlawfully included persons convicted under state laws.
  • The power to pardon such offenders rests solely with state governors.
  • Falana called for a public apology from the Attorney-General of the Federation.
The critique underscores a profound failure in governance mechanics, where a meant-to-be act of mercy instead revealed a systemic carelessness with the nation's highest laws.

Sources: Daily Post Nigeria, Arise Television Interview