The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has officially inaugurated the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy.
This initiative is aimed at supporting justice and decongesting correctional facilities by recommending deserving prisoners and ex-convicts for presidential pardon.
The nation’s Constitution grants the President the special power of prerogative of mercy, enabling the pardon of individuals convicted of crimes. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Abuja, Senator Akume emphasized the significance of the committee in fostering a just and compassionate society.
“The committee will play a critical role in supporting justice by decongesting correctional facilities and ensuring that eligible and deserving individuals are recommended for presidential consideration. In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Prerogative of Mercy is essential in safeguarding against injustice, promoting rehabilitation, and upholding human rights,” Akume stated.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, who chairs the reconstituted 12-member committee, clarified that applications for presidential pardon would be carefully evaluated on merit. He stressed that the committee’s mandate does not involve reviewing court decisions but fulfills the constitutional prerogative granted to the President.
The newly inaugurated committee has a four-year tenure and is expected to contribute significantly to justice reform and the humane treatment of prisoners.
About the Author
