BREAKING: Federal Govt Clarifies, Says Release Of Maryam Sanda, 81 Others Not Yet Finalised

Abuja, Nigeria- The Federal Government has clarified that neither Maryam Sanda nor any of the 81 inmates recently approved for presidential clemency have been released from custody.

The clarification comes amid public outrage following reports that President Bola Tinubu’s administration had moved to free inmates convicted of crimes including murder, drug trafficking, and illegal mining.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who chaired the Committee on Presidential Clemency, said the process was still undergoing final administrative reviews.

According to Fagbemi, the process remains at its “final administrative stage,” which includes a standard verification to ensure that all names and recommendations comply with legal and procedural requirements before any release order is issued.

He explained that after the approval by the Council of State, the final step involves issuing the instrument for implementation to the Controller-General of Corrections. This, he said, provides an opportunity for a last review to correct any potential errors before any release is effected.

Fagbemi also commended Nigerians for their “vigilance and constructive feedback,” noting that such engagement strengthens institutional integrity and reinforces the government’s commitment to justice and good governance.

According to him, “The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wishes to clarify that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody.”

“The process remains at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is 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. 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.

This verification process is part of the standard protocol and reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence.

“The Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance.

“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. 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,” Fagbemi added.