Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government of Nigeria has inaugurated a 12-member Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM), tasked with recommending individuals eligible for presidential pardons from criminal convictions.
The committee, chaired by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, was inaugurated on Wednesday. It has a four-year tenure and includes members drawn from various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), as well as representatives from religious bodies and four eminent Nigerians.
Among the notable appointees are Justice Augustine Utsaha, Prof. Alkasum Abba, Chief Akinlolu Olujinmi (SAN), and Prof. Nike Sidikat Ijaiya. The Permanent Secretary for Special Duties and Governmental Affairs will also serve as a key member, while the director for special duties and intergovernmental affairs will act as the committee’s secretary.
During the inauguration, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) explained the constitutional basis for the committee’s establishment, citing Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution (as Amended), which grants the President authority to issue pardons.
“In the spirit of the renewed hope agenda of Mr. President, the prerogative of mercy is a vital component of a just and compassionate society, providing a safeguard against injustice and promoting rehabilitation and human rights,” the SGF said.
The committee’s mandate includes reviewing applications for pardons and clemency, assessing their merits, and providing recommendations to the President. Additionally, members may visit correctional facilities nationwide to identify potential cases of convicts and ex-convicts deserving of clemency.
Speculation Surrounding James Ibori’s Pardon
Speculation has arisen regarding the potential pardon of Chief James Onanefe Ibori, the former Governor of Delta State, widely known as “Odidigboigbo.” Ibori, who has faced legal controversies and was previously convicted in the United Kingdom for money laundering, could benefit from the committee's recommendations.
A close source hinted at the possibility, stating, “With the closeness of Ibori to the seat of power, there is no doubt his name won’t top the list of those to be pardoned, but please don’t quote me.”
Ibori's relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a fellow former governor and long-time associate, has fueled speculation that he may be among the beneficiaries of the government’s renewed emphasis on mercy and rehabilitation.
Committee’s Responsibilities
The Attorney-General emphasized the committee’s objective and impartial approach, stating:
“We assure Nigerians that we will carry out our assignment objectively in the public interest and the interest of justice. This is not a review of court decisions but a discharge of a constitutional mandate.”
The committee is expected to submit a detailed report with actionable recommendations to President Tinubu for further consideration and directives.
Observers view the establishment of the PACPM as a significant move in promoting justice, rehabilitation, and human rights within the Nigerian justice system. However, public attention remains focused on how the committee will execute its mandate, particularly in high-profile cases such as that of James Ibori.
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