The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, said no inmate granted clemency under the recent presidential prerogative of mercy has been released.
In a statement on Thursday, Fagbemi said the process was at its final administrative stage and involved a thorough review to ensure full compliance with all legal and procedural requirements before the formal instruments of release are issued.
He explained that after approval by the Council of State, the final step in the exercise is the issuance of the official instrument authorizing the implementation of the decision for each beneficiary.
According to him, this allows for one last verification to correct any possible errors before the documents are transmitted to the Controller-General of Corrections for execution.
Fagbemi stressed that the verification process is a standard protocol designed to uphold transparency, accountability, and due diligence in the administration of justice.
“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 administrative checks are completed.
The AGF commended citizens for their vigilance and constructive engagement, noting that public interest and feedback strengthen institutional integrity and promote good governance.
“The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” Fagbemi concluded.
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