Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has set free about 15 convicted inmates to celebrate his 60th birthday. The birthday bash of the governor was put on hold due to the death of the Secretary to the State Government, Oluwatuyi Tayo, popularly called ‘Tukana’. Aiyedatiwa further pardoned 25 other inmates, who were on death row or life imprisonment. A statement signed by the governor's Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, titled, "Aiyedatiwa Pardons 40 Prisoners to Celebrate 60th Birthday," disclosed the development.
According to the governor, the gesture demonstrated his administration's commitment to justice reform and reintegrating convicts into society.
The pardons, granted on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, include the outright release of 15 convicts effective Sunday, 12 January 2025.
Among the fortunate beneficiaries, 15 convicts will experience the profound relief of outright release effective January 12, 2025.
In a further demonstration of mercy, several death sentences will be commuted to life imprisonment. In contrast, others will see their terms of incarceration reduced, thereby promotion renewed hope for reintegration into society.
The declaration was made by Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, who also chairs the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
