Mr Macaroni on APC hypocrisy over presidential pardons
Nigerian actor and activist Mr Macaroni has condemned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for what he says is hypocrisy surrounding the recent presidential pardons. He drew attention to an old tweet from APC’s media aide, Segun Dada, which reportedly condemned the concept of presidential pardons when made under previous administrations. Mr Macaroni contrasted that earlier position with the party’s current support for dozens of pardons granted by President Bola Tinubu.
In a post on X, Mr Macaroni wrote that the APC once criticised the “power of mercy” and pardoning of convicted criminals, but that today they are the same ones practising it. He said Nigerians are being asked to accept contradictions: criticisms made in past opposition are now being defended as statesmanship when they occur under APC leadership. He urged consistency and accountability, arguing that principles should not shift simply because of which party is in power.
The pardons in question include posthumous forgiveness for historical figures such as Herbert Macaulay and Mamman Vatsa, sentence reductions for several inmates, and clemency granted to hundreds of convicts, including those with convictions for serious crimes such as drug trafficking and murder. These actions have drawn strong reactions from opposition parties and civil society groups who argue the pardons send the wrong signal.
Mr Macaroni’s intervention has rekindled public debate about the prerogative of mercy and whether it is being used fairly. Supporters of the pardons say they are part of reconciling the past, correcting injustices, and promoting national unity. Critics caution that too many clemencies, especially for severe crimes, could undermine deterrence, justice, and the rule of law.
As of now, Segun Dada has not responded publicly to Mr Macaroni’s claim or clarified whether the old tweet accurately represents his past views. Many Nigerians are waiting for more transparency about both the old statements and the rationale behind today’s pardons.
