The Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, has called for the exclusion of individuals convicted of corruption from benefiting from state pardons. Speaking at a roundtable organized by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Abuja on Monday, Fagbemi emphasized that such pardons undermine the fight against corruption.
Fagbemi proposed that in the next constitutional review, those found guilty of corruption should be barred from receiving the prerogative of mercy, which is often granted by the state to convicted individuals. According to him, removing this privilege would serve as a stronger deterrent to potential offenders.
“I will suggest in our next constitution review exercise that we expunge those found guilty of corruption from benefiting from powers of the prerogative of mercy to serve as a deterrent to others,” Fagbemi stated.
ALSO READ Under Tinubu, Corruption is Fighting Back with Gusto, By Prof. Jibrin Ibrahim
The Justice Minister also underscored the need for thorough collaboration between all stakeholders, particularly state attorneys-general, to enhance the effectiveness of the anti-corruption fight. He warned against allowing nepotism, political influence, or personal biases to interfere with legal decisions, urging law enforcement and justice officials to maintain objectivity and integrity.
Fagbemi further urged anti-graft agencies to ensure thorough investigations before arresting suspects, stressing the importance of avoiding media trials. He cautioned against hastily publicizing arrests to satisfy public sentiment, emphasizing the need for a well-researched approach to prosecution.
“We should not give in to public sentiments. In Nigeria, we are polarized along political lines. Let us be thorough and take our time before inviting someone for questioning… If it’s two or three big fish you can catch in a year, as long as you are thorough, it is alright,” Fagbemi concluded.
