Amnesty International has expressed deep concern over the recent clemency and pardons granted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to some individuals convicted of human rights crimes.
In a statement posted on its official X handle on Monday, the rights organisation said the move could undermine justice for victims and promote impunity in Nigeria.
According to Amnesty International, the government’s decision appeared to favour perpetrators instead of ensuring justice and reparations for victims and their families.
“The way and manner Nigerian authorities carried out the exercise seemed to prioritise the perpetrators instead of access to justice and effective remedies for the victims and their families,” the organisation stated.
The group warned that such actions could weaken the rule of law and prevent accountability for serious crimes.
“The government’s actions have the potential of undermining the rule of law, preventing the emergence of truth, and entrenching impunity for human rights crimes,” it added.
Amnesty International therefore urged President Tinubu to review the pardons and uphold the rights of victims.
“President Bola Tinubu should reconsider his government’s pardons for those convicted of human rights crimes, and ensure the rights of the victims and their families are protected,” the statement said.
