Faduri Oluwadare Slams Tinubu’s Presidential Pardon, Says Mercy Must Not Trump Justice

Former 2023 presidential aspirant, Faduri Oluwadare Joseph, has voiced strong concerns over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to grant presidential pardons to individuals convicted of grave crimes, including drug trafficking, terrorism, and murder.

Faduri, who leads the Rescue Movement for New Nigeria (Rescue the Vulnerable Initiative), said although the move may have been framed as an act of mercy or reconciliation, it poses serious questions about national security, justice, and public trust in governance.

In a statement, the former Labour Party presidential hopeful warned that presidential clemency must be guided by transparency, fairness, and the national interest, emphasizing its far-reaching impact on public morality and the rule of law.

“While the Constitution grants the President the power of mercy, such discretion must not weaken justice or erode citizens’ confidence in national institutions,” he said.

Faduri cautioned that releasing offenders guilty of heinous crimes could demoralize security forces who risk their lives to protect the nation and might embolden criminal elements who see forgiveness as a loophole.

“Mercy is a noble virtue,” he stated, “but it must never come at the expense of justice or public safety. Compassion without accountability undermines the moral fabric of society and the principles of democracy.”

He urged the Federal Government to create clear and transparent guidelines for granting future pardons, ensuring that decisions reflect national interest, judicial integrity, and the voices of victims and affected communities.

Faduri reaffirmed his movement’s commitment to peace, justice, and responsible leadership, calling on Nigerian leaders to uphold fairness, transparency, and accountability in all acts of governance.