Social media commentator @Akwa Ibom 1st Son has criticised Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his handling of the recent presidential pardon process, stating that he acted without consulting the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).
In a statement shared via his social media handle, @Akwa Ibom 1st Son referenced comments attributed to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, suggesting that Tinubu had shown incompetence by making legal decisions without consulting the appropriate authorities.
The controversy comes amid clarifications from the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, which addressed public concerns over the status of inmates listed for clemency under the President’s prerogative of mercy.
In a statement issued earlier, the AGF’s office confirmed that no inmate approved for clemency has been released yet, stressing that the process is still at the final administrative stage.
“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,” the statement said.
It further explained that after approval by the Council of State, the last stage involves issuing the instrument that authorises implementation for each beneficiary.
This, according to the AGF, allows for final verification “for remedial purposes, if any,” before being forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for action.
The ministry emphasised that the verification process is a standard legal protocol aimed at ensuring transparency, due diligence, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
“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 statement added.
The AGF’s office also appreciated the public’s vigilance and engagement, noting that such scrutiny strengthens institutional integrity and reflects Nigerians’ commitment to justice and good governance.
Meanwhile, @Akwa Ibom 1st Son remarks suggest that Tinubu did not make full legal consultations or follow due process with Nigeria’s legal system before granting pardons to criminals and drug lords.
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