As a gesture of goodwill in celebration of Nigeria’s 64th independence, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, governor of Ondo State, has released nineteen prisoners from various prisons across the state.
These nineteen prisoners are among one hundred and seventy-one incarcerated individuals who are scheduled to gain from the use of the prerogative of power.
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The governor’s move exemplifies his dedication to rehabilitation and second chances within the legal system, since it followed the recommendations of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Of the recipients, 19 will receive unconditional release from jail, while others will have the death penalty reduced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
More than that, the sentences of a number of prisoners will be shortened, opening doors to rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
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Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, who serves as both the state attorney general and commissioner for justice, as well as chairman of the advisory council on the prerogative of mercy, announced the governor’s decision in a press release signed by him on Monday.
The statement stated that the release instructions were signed by Governor Aiyedatiwa on September 27, 2024. The revisions are scheduled to be implemented on October 1, 2024, which happens to be the same day as the nation’s 64th Independence celebrations.
This statement claims that Governor Aiyedatiwa has acted in compliance with Section 212 (1) (2) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Constitution (as modified) from 1999.
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“The Advisory Council reviewed all of the applications and made sure that their suggestions followed all of the rules and factors.
When the Council deliberated, they drew on the opinions of corrections officials, attorneys, and members of the community, taking into account details such the crimes committed, the duration of incarceration, the offenders’ ages, health, and conduct behind bars.
This caring act is an important part of the ongoing reforms in the justice sector and demonstrates Governor Aiyedatiwa’s determination to relieve prison overcrowding in Ondo State.
“The permission to release prisoners not only shows compassion, but it also confirms our faith in the power of the human spirit to change and be saved,” Ajulo said.