Aiyedatiwa frees 40 prisoners on 60th birthday

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In a remarkable act of compassion marking his 60th birthday, the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has granted clemency to 40 prisoners, highlighting his dedication to justice reform and the rehabilitation of offenders.

Aiyedatiwa’s Chief Press Secretary Ebenezer Adeniyan in a statement on Sunday said the announcement was made by Olukayode Ajulo, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, who also chairs the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

Ajulo said the council’s recommendations considered factors such as the nature of the offences, duration of incarceration, age, health, and behaviour of the inmates.

He added that the compassionate gesture underscored Governor Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to extending grace and mercy to the convicts, which represents a vital component of his administration’s ongoing justice sector reforms.

However, the governor said the decision, based on recommendations from the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, emphasised his belief in second chances and a justice system that prioritizes reform over punishment.

Fifteen of the beneficiaries will be released outright starting January 12, 2025, while others will see their death sentences commuted to life imprisonment or have their sentences reduced.

The signing of the release orders coincided with the governor’s decision to forgo personal celebrations in honour of the late Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tuykana), who passed away last weekend.

Governor Aiyedatiwa’s action aligns with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

His administration continues to set a compassionate tone in justice delivery while advocating for the transformative power of rehabilitation and reintegration.

The governor’s gesture was hailed as a significant step toward fostering hope and second chances within the justice system.