The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent Presidential exercise has yet been released from custody.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 16, 2025, Fagbemi explained that the exercise remains at the final administrative stage, involving a thorough review to ensure that all names and recommendations comply with established legal and procedural requirements before the issuance of any release instruments.
According to the Attorney-General, the last phase of the process—following approval by the Council of State—entails preparing and issuing the official instruments authorising the release of beneficiaries. This, he said, allows for one final verification step “for remedial purposes, if any,” before forwarding the documents to the Controller-General of Corrections for implementation.
Fagbemi stressed that the ongoing verification is a standard protocol aimed at maintaining transparency and due diligence in the process.
“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,” he said, assuring that the public will be duly informed once all legal and procedural checks are completed.
He also commended Nigerians for their vigilance and constructive engagement, describing public feedback as a positive sign of citizens’ deep concern for justice and good governance.
“The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” Fagbemi added.
