Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Governor of Ondo State, has granted pardons to 40 prisoners as part of his administration’s ongoing commitment to justice reform and the reintegration of convicts into society. This significant move aligns with his vision of ensuring fairness and rehabilitation for deserving inmates, providing them with an opportunity to reintegrate and contribute positively to society.
According to Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, the pardons reflect Governor Aiyedatiwa’s deep commitment to extending mercy and ensuring that individuals who have shown remorse and rehabilitated themselves are given a second chance at life outside of prison.
The pardons, which were approved based on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, include the immediate release of 15 inmates, effective from Sunday, January 12, 2025. The council’s decisions were informed by factors such as the nature of the inmates’ offenses, their behavior while incarcerated, health conditions, age, and the length of their sentences.
The official statement, titled “Aiyedatiwa Pardons 40 Prisoners to Celebrate 60th Birthday,” was signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan. The statement revealed that some of the prisoners who had been sentenced to death had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment, while others saw their sentences significantly reduced. This measure underscores the Governor’s belief in justice tempered with mercy, particularly for those who have shown sincere efforts toward reform.
Dr. Ajulo, who also serves as the chairman of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, explained that the decisions were carefully deliberated and reflected a combination of justice and compassion. He noted that the process was done after considering various perspectives, including those from correctional authorities, legal experts, and respected community leaders, to ensure a fair and balanced outcome for each individual involved.
Dr. Ajulo emphasized that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s actions were a direct reflection of his unwavering commitment to justice sector reforms, stating, “This compassionate act reflects Governor Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to justice sector reforms and to extending grace and mercy to deserving convicts.”
In an act of humility, Governor Aiyedatiwa chose to forgo any birthday celebrations in order to honor the late Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tukana), who recently passed away. This decision further exemplifies the Governor’s values of respect and recognition for those who have made significant contributions to the state.
The statement also clarified that the pardons align with Section 212 (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which grants state governors the authority to exercise the prerogative of mercy. By invoking this power, the Governor has helped provide a path to redemption for those who have paid their dues and shown the potential for reintegration into society.
The recommendations from the Advisory Council were made after thorough consultation with correctional authorities, legal experts, and well-respected community figures, ensuring that fairness and compassion were prioritized in every decision. The Governor’s action highlights his focus on rehabilitation and second chances for deserving convicts, reaffirming his commitment to justice, fairness, and the well-being of all Ondo State citizens.
