Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent issuance of presidential pardons, describing the move as reckless and damaging to Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
In a strongly worded statement released on Sunday, Atiku accused the Tinubu administration of abusing the constitutional power of clemency by granting pardons to individuals convicted of serious crimes, including drug trafficking, kidnapping, murder, and corruption.
“The presidential pardon is a solemn prerogative meant to temper justice with mercy,” Atiku stated. “When properly exercised, it elevates justice and strengthens public faith in governance. What we have witnessed, however, is a mockery of that principle.”
The former vice president expressed alarm over the timing and scope of the pardons, noting that nearly 30% of those granted clemency were convicted of drug-related offences. He argued that the decision sends a dangerous signal to the public and international observers, especially as Nigeria battles rising insecurity, youth addiction, and reputational damage from past drug scandals.
Atiku further criticized the moral implications of the move, referencing unresolved controversies surrounding President Tinubu’s past, including a forfeiture of funds to U.S. authorities over alleged drug-related investigations. “It is no surprise that this administration continues to demonstrate a worrying tolerance for individuals associated with criminal enterprise,” he said.
He warned that the pardons risk emboldening criminality, demoralizing law enforcement, and insulting victims of violent and economic crimes. “Clemency must never be confused with complicity,” Atiku said. “When a government begins to absolve offenders of the very crimes it claims to be fighting, it erodes the moral authority of leadership.”
The statement concluded with a call for principled governance and a justice system that prioritizes accountability over political convenience. “Nigeria deserves a leadership that upholds justice, not one that trivializes it,” Atiku asserted.
The presidency has yet to respond to the criticism.
