The Digest:
The Presidency has detailed the rationale behind President Bola Tinubu's pardon of 175 convicts. According to a statement from Bayo Onanuga reported by Premium Times, the decision, based on recommendations from a committee chaired by the Attorney-General, balances historical justice with contemporary mercy, freeing everyone from a former lawmaker to a convicted murderer on grounds ranging from remorse to old age.
Key Points:
- President Tinubu granted pardons, clemency, or sentence commutations to 175 individuals.
- The Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy recommended the actions.
- Key reasons included remorse, good conduct, old age, and acquisition of new skills or education.
- High-profile beneficiaries include Maryam Sanda and a posthumous pardon for Ken Saro-Wiwa.
- Historical injustices were corrected for figures like Sir Herbert Macaulay and Major General Vatsa.
- 82 inmates were granted clemency, while 65 others had their sentences commuted.
- Seven inmates on death row had their sentences reduced to life imprisonment.
Sources: Premium Times
