Key Points
- Adeyanju first praised Tinubu for dropping convict names. He later withdrew praise after fresh list claim.
- He says Maryam Sanda still features despite tweaks. Her penalty reportedly drops from death to twelve years.
- He warns Aso Rock about those compiling such lists. He urges more checks before future clemency steps.
Activist Deji Adeyanju has withdrawn praise for President Tinubu. He says Maryam Sanda still sits on the contentious list. He posted the climbdown on X after new claims.
He had earlier praised the presidency for removing convict names. He called it a sign the seat hears critics. Later, he warned about officials who built the list. Public anger has grown after Bilyaminu Bello family outrage.
He wrote he withdraws his commendation, calling the process nonsense. He says Maryam Sanda remains on the controversial clemency list. He adds the penalty reportedly falls to a twelve-year term.
What changed after new claims
His earlier post praised a prompt fix by Aso Rock. It said the office listened to public feedback on clemency. His new view shows doubts about the screening process. He asks the presidency to probe the compilers behind it.
Why the pardon list matters now
Maryam Sanda was convicted for killing Bilyaminu Bello. Her case drew huge attention due to its grim facts. Families of victims strongly oppose any form of clemency. Rights groups say fairness must guide each mercy step.
Public debate now turns to how lists are built. State rules require checks by justice and security officials. Final approval comes from the president after council input. Critics say errors erode trust in the entire process.
Earlier, Lagos politician GRV questioned clemency for drug convicts. He urged clear rules after public shock over pardons. His stance drew coverage in GRV questions presidential pardon. Those points frame today’s debate over the new claims.
Adeyanju now asks Aso Rock to review the pipeline. He wants stronger screens before lists leave the desk. He says this prevents shocks and protects public trust. The presidency has not issued a fresh reply.
Nigerians await clarity on the final shape of clemency. Families seek justice while others plead for second chances. For now, Adeyanju’s U-turn keeps the heat intense. His post will fuel reviews of future mercy lists.
Legal experts note clemency can commute but not absolve. They say reasons should be published for public trust. Clear notes also shield the presidency from future claims. Advocates urge timelines for reviews to avoid late shocks.
The activist says his only goal is clean governance. He promises to watch for changes in coming days. Observers will track whether names are finally removed.
