In a landmark act of compassion to usher in 2026, the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the release and sentence reduction of 77 convicts currently serving terms across various correctional facilities in the state.
The clemency, announced on New Year’s Day, follows a comprehensive review by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Aiyedatiwa described the gesture as an effort to balance the scales of justice with humanity, providing a “second chance” to those who have shown genuine remorse and a commitment to reform.
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The Chairman of the Advisory Council and State Attorney General, Kayode Ajulo, revealed that the recommendations were not made lightly.
The council evaluated each inmate based on discipline maintained while in custody, considerations for elderly or ailing inmates, readiness to reintegrate into society as productive citizens and rhe gravity and circumstances of the original crime.
“This compassionate gesture exemplifies profound mercy and a forward-thinking leadership that prioritizes rehabilitation over mere punishment,” Ajulo stated, noting that the Governor personally reviewed each case to ensure fairness.
The 77 beneficiaries were granted varying degrees of clemency, ranging from outright release to substantial reductions in their prison sentences.
Twelve inmates were granted immediate freedom in recognition of exemplary conduct. Death sentences for 22 inmates were commuted to life imprisonment or fixed jail terms.
Four inmates serving life sentences had their terms reduced to 25 years, while 14 others had their sentences reduced to 20 years.
In addition, life imprisonment was reduced to 15 years for 15 inmates and to 10 years for six inmates.
A further four inmates had their sentences commuted to lesser prison terms.Beyond individual mercy, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, emphasised that the move is a strategic step toward decongesting the state’s overcrowded correctional centers.
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By releasing reformed individuals, the administration aims to foster hope and reduce the fiscal burden on the state’s penal system.
The Attorney General added that the exercise reaffirms the Governor’s dedication to Justice Sector Reforms, ensuring that the law serves as a tool for both correction and redemption.
