By Obinna Uballa
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, says the recently approved presidential pardon list is undergoing a final administrative review to ensure full legal and procedural compliance before implementation.
Fagbemi, in a statement on Thursday, explained that the process remains at its last stage, which involves verifying the names and recommendations to confirm they meet established legal standards before the official release instruments are issued.
“It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary,” he said.
“This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action.”
The AGF stressed that the verification exercise is a standard protocol designed to uphold transparency, due diligence, and adherence to the rule of law.
He also appreciated the public’s vigilance and feedback on the process, noting that such engagement reinforces institutional integrity and public trust.
“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,” Fagbemi stated.
“As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” he added.
