Presidential Pardon: Tinubu Government Acts Before Thinking — Atiku Slams Administration Over Controversial Clemency Reversal

By: Sunday Ameh

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for revoking the controversial presidential pardon initially granted to several convicted persons, including individuals jailed for serious crimes like kidnapping and drug trafficking.

Atiku, in a statement issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, said the presidency’s reversal showed a pattern of poor judgment and governance driven by public pressure rather than foresight.

“Once again, Nigerians have witnessed a government that does not lead — it reacts,” Atiku said. “This U-turn is not an act of wisdom; it is an act of shame. If Nigerians did not protest, would convicted drug offenders and kidnappers be walking free today?”
He accused the Tinubu administration of “acting before thinking,” describing the pardon saga as further evidence of incompetence and policy recklessness.

The former Vice President demanded full transparency on how the original list was compiled.

“Who compiled the list? What criteria were used to justify freeing kidnappers and drug lords? Where was the Attorney-General when this madness was being prepared?” he asked.

Atiku said the incident reinforced what he called the government’s “trial-and-error approach” to leadership.
“This pattern has become familiar — announce the unthinkable, watch the country erupt, then hurriedly reverse course as if governance is a laboratory experiment.”
He stressed that the constitutional power of pardon must not be trivialised.

“A presidential pardon is not a social experiment. It is a sacred power meant to reflect justice, mercy, and national interest — not reward impunity or test the patience of Nigerians.”

Atiku urged the government to release the full list of originally selected beneficiaries, including details of their offences and the officials who endorsed their names.

“If the President truly means well, let him publish the list. Let Nigerians see the names, the crimes, and the hands that signed off on this reckless indulgence.”
He dismissed the reversal as “damage control” triggered by public outrage.

“Until the government provides full disclosure, this cancellation remains mere face-saving — too little, too late.”