Abuja, Nigeria – October 10, 2025
President Bola Tinubu has granted a presidential pardon to one of Nigeria’s founding fathers, Herbert Macaulay, along with 174 other individuals, under the presidential prerogative of mercy.
The announcement followed a presentation by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who relayed President Tinubu’s recommendations during the Council of State meeting held in Abuja. The decision was based on the report of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Herbert Macaulay, often hailed as the father of Nigerian nationalism, was a key figure in the country’s struggle for independence. However, during the colonial era, Macaulay was twice convicted by British authorities in Lagos for allegedly misappropriating funds from an estate he administered, leading to prison sentences that have remained part of his official record for over a century.
The presidential pardon is seen as a symbolic move to correct historical injustices and formally recognize Macaulay’s role in Nigeria’s path to nationhood.
The identities of the other 174 beneficiaries across various categories have not yet been disclosed but are expected to include both living individuals and posthumous cases.
This marks a significant use of the presidential prerogative of mercy, aimed at promoting justice, reconciliation, and national unity.