President Bola Tinubu’s decision to grant presidential pardons to several inmates, including individuals convicted for drug trafficking, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures and civil society groups.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) described the move as “reckless and insensitive,” warning that it undermines Nigeria’s moral and legal credibility in the fight against drug abuse. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar echoed this sentiment, questioning the vetting process used in determining eligibility for clemency.
A statement from ADC’s National Chairman accused the government of sending “the wrong signal to the youth” at a time when narcotics abuse is on the rise nationwide. The party demanded the publication of the full list of pardoned individuals and the criteria used for selection.
However, the Presidency defended the action, saying the exercise was part of the Federal Government’s broader prison decongestion policy and that most beneficiaries were rehabilitated inmates who had shown remorse.
Analysts remain divided, with some applauding the humanitarian gesture and others calling for stronger transparency mechanisms to prevent abuse of executive clemency.
