FG Inaugurates Prerogative Of Mercy Committee

The federal government has inaugurated the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM) to bolster Nigeria’s justice, rehabilitation, and human rights.

The move aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises institutional reforms and social reintegration.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, formally inaugurated the 15-member committee in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to a statement by the director of media in his office, Segun Imohisoen, speaking at the event, Sen. Akume highlighted the committee’s constitutional significance, referencing Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which grants the President the authority to pardon individuals convicted of offences under Acts of the National Assembly.

“This power enables the President to promote justice and rehabilitation by granting pardons to deserving individuals,” Akume said.

He described the PACPM as a vital administrative body that will ensure this presidential prerogative’s smooth and efficient exercise.

The committee comprises representatives from key institutions, including the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, who will serve as chairman of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Correctional Service.

The National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, and the Christian Association of Nigeria are others.

The body also includes legal and academic experts such as Chief Akinlolu Olujinmi, CON, SAN, and Prof. Nike Y. Sidikat Ijaiya.

Over the next four years, the committee will critically recommend pardons and clemency for prisoners and ex-convicts who meet the criteria.

Their work is expected to support ongoing efforts to decongest correctional facilities and foster the reintegration of rehabilitated individuals into society.

The Attorney-General of the Federation, who chairs the committee, assured the President of the committee’s commitment to delivering on its mandate.

“We will assist the President in discharging his constitutional responsibility of granting pardons to deserving cases while advancing justice and social harmony,” he said.