By Ondo Governor Freed 40 Inmates Amidst 60th Birthday Celebration
In a powerful display of mercy and justice reform, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has granted pardons to 40 prison inmates as part of his administration’s efforts to promote rehabilitation and reintegrate convicts into society.
The announcement, made on January 12, 2025, coincided with the governor’s 60th birthday, marking the occasion with a generous act of compassion.
The pardons were issued following the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, led by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN).
The council carefully reviewed the cases of the 40 inmates, considering factors such as the nature of their offenses, their behavior while incarcerated, health conditions, and length of imprisonment.
As a result, 15 inmates will be immediately released, while others had their sentences reduced or commuted — including some death sentences, which were changed to life imprisonment.
Dr. Ajulo, who also chairs the council, emphasized that the governor’s decision reflects Aiyedatiwa’s ongoing commitment to justice sector reform and his dedication to offering a second chance to deserving individuals.
“This act of clemency is part of our broader efforts to ensure fairness and mercy within the justice system,” Ajulo stated.
While the pardons were issued as part of the governor’s birthday celebrations, Governor Aiyedatiwa chose to forgo personal festivities in order to honor the late Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tukana), the recently deceased Secretary to the State Government. The governor’s decision to dedicate his special day to a higher cause resonated deeply with the people of Ondo.
In line with Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, the governor exercised his constitutional right to grant the pardons, a move that is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of the inmates and their communities.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s gesture is a reminder of the transformative power of mercy and the importance of second chances in fostering social reintegration.
