Abuja: The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has commended President Bola Tinubu for his decision to grant a state pardon to late nationalist Herbert Macaulay and 174 others, describing it as a ‘courageous and compassionate decision.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, President Tinubu on Thursday granted a posthumous presidential pardon to Macaulay, along with a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, the late Maj.- Gen. Mamman Vatsa, who was convicted of treason, and a former lawmaker, Farouq Lawan, who was also convicted. The clemency approvals were endorsed by the National Council of State during its Thursday meeting at the State House in Abuja. The President further approved clemency for 82 inmates, commuted seven death sentences to life imprisonment, and reduced the prison terms of 65 others. These actions were based on the recommendations of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.
Reacting to the President’s actions, APC Spokesman Mr. Seye Oladejo stated on Friday that the decision reflects the President’s humanity, fairness, and statesmanship. He emphasized that President Tinubu’s gesture was not merely symbolic but reaffirmed his commitment to restorative justice and national healing, highlighting the power of forgiveness in strengthening unity.
Oladejo further noted that by honoring Herbert Macaulay, the President corrected a historical injustice and reaffirmed the dignity of those who fought for Nigeria’s freedom. For living beneficiaries, the act opens a new chapter of hope, redemption, and reintegration, demonstrating that justice in a democracy should balance accountability with mercy.
He added that the Renewed Hope Agenda under President Tinubu is not just focused on infrastructure and economy but is also about building a fair, humane, and inclusive nation. The pardon, according to Oladejo, restores faith in the justice system, deepens reconciliation, and serves as a reminder that a nation’s greatness lies not only in how it punishes but also in how it forgives.
Oladejo praised President Tinubu for leading with heart, courage, and vision, reflecting true leadership that is firm, fair, and forward-looking.