AGF Proposes Ban on Presidential Pardons for Corrupt Leaders

AGF Proposes Ban on Presidential Pardons for Corrupt Leaders

Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has proposed a constitutional amendment to prevent presidential pardons for corrupt leaders. Announced at an ICPC roundtable in Abuja, the amendment aims to exclude corruption cases from the prerogative of mercy.

The roundtable, supported by the MacArthur Foundation, brought together legal and civil society stakeholders to enhance anti-corruption efforts. Fagbemi emphasized that the amendment, to be pursued in the next constitutional review, is essential for ensuring corrupt leaders face full legal consequences.

Previous presidential pardons for corruption include those of former Bayelsa Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha and former Delta Governor James Ibori. Fagbemi highlighted the need for a unified, evidence-based approach to combat corruption and avoid influence from public sentiment.

Support for the proposal was expressed by Senate Anti-Corruption Committee Chairman Senator Osinakachukwu Ideozu and House Anti-Corruption Committee Chairman Rt. Hon. Kayode Moshood Akiolu underscored the need for a comprehensive anti-corruption strategy. Keynote speaker Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN) and other experts discussed the challenges and opportunities in strengthening anti-corruption measures.