Nigerians Convicted of Corruption Should Not Receive State Pardon – Fagbemi

Lateef Fagbemi, the Minister of Justice, has stated that those who have been convicted and charged for corruption should not be granted state pardon.

At a roundtable in Abuja on Monday, which was arranged by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for state commissioners of justice, Fagbemi recommended that individuals convicted of corruption should be excluded from receiving clemency during future constitutional reviews.

The AGF proposed that during the upcoming constitution review, he would recommend removing individuals convicted of corruption from eligibility for using the prerogative of mercy as a way to discourage similar misconduct.

Emphasizing the significance of cooperation among all parties involved in tackling corruption, notably attorneys-general, he urged them to steer clear of nepotism, political vendettas and bias-driven actions aimed at pleasing their governors.

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Fagbemi advised that anti-corruption agencies should carry out thorough investigations before arresting suspects to prevent them from being tried in the media.

In Nigeria, it is important that we do not succumb to popular opinions. Our society is divided by political affiliations and therefore, it’s crucial that we are meticulous and deliberate before summoning an individual for interrogation. Rushed investigations with substandard results should be avoided in favor of a careful approach aimed at capturing the right culprit. With patience in our proceedings, a considerable offender will undoubtedly come into play.

According to Fagbemi, it is acceptable if you are able to catch two or three large fish in a year and do so meticulously.

The Federation’s Attorney General expressed his fearlessness to take action against any government agency discovered involved in corrupt activities last month.

He urged lawyers and members of the public to provide such information, which can be thoroughly investigated with necessary actions taken.