Joel Ajayi
The Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his recent exercise of the Prerogative of Mercy, describing it as a major step toward national healing, justice reform, and human rights advancement in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Saturday, October 11, 2025, and signed by its Vice President, Princess Grace Ene Jonathan, the organization commended the President for granting amnesty, clemency, and posthumous pardons to 175 Nigerians — including notable national figures such as Major General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, Herbert Macaulay, and members of the Ogoni Nine.
GICN noted that the decision, endorsed by the National Council of State, underscores President Tinubu’s compassion and commitment to equity, rehabilitation, and reconciliation. The President’s action, which saw 82 inmates granted clemency, 65 others have their sentences reduced, and seven death sentences commuted to life imprisonment, was described as “a testament to statesmanship anchored on human dignity.”
The organization further linked the move to its ongoing project, “Advancing Human Rights through Legal Assistance to Inmates in Police Stations and Correctional Centres within Abuja and its Environs,” aimed at promoting justice reform and supporting humane treatment and reintegration of inmates.
GICN also lauded the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM), led by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, for the transparent and consultative process that produced the landmark approvals.
The group urged the Federal Government to sustain the momentum by enhancing rehabilitation programmes, expanding access to justice for indigent inmates, and ensuring periodic reviews for those deserving of mercy.
“President Tinubu’s compassionate gesture is not only a reflection of moral courage but also a new dawn for Nigeria’s justice system,” the statement added.
GICN reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with government institutions and civil society actors in promoting human rights, justice reform, and decongestion of correctional centres across the country.
