The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has granted state pardon to 40 convicted inmates in various correctional centres in the state to mark his 60th birthday.
Thefrontrank reports that Aiyedatiwa was born on January 12, 1965 at Obenla in Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.
The governor in a statement in Akure on Sunday, said granting pardon to the convicts was a decision that reflected his “profound commitment to rehabilitation and the transformative power of second chances.”
According to him, the noble initiative emerged from recommendations put forth by the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, underscoring the governor’s dedication to fostering a justice system that prioritizes reform over retribution.
“Among the fortunate beneficiaries, 15 convicts will experience the profound relief of outright release effective from January 12, 2025.
“In a further demonstration of mercy, several death sentences will be commuted to life imprisonment, while others will see their terms of incarceration reduced, thereby nurturing renewed hope for reintegration into the society,” he stated.
The signing of the release orders coincides with the governor’s 60th birthday, marking a significant occasion with an act of grace.
Aiyedatiwa decided to forgo his birthday celebration in honour of the Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tuykana), who died on January 4, 2025 after a ghastly car accident.
The governor noted that his actions were in accordance with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“The Council’s deliberations were enriched by insights from correctional authorities, legal experts, and esteemed community members, focusing on the nature of the offenses, duration of incarceration, age, health, and behaviour of the inmates,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa emphasized that “this compassionate gesture underscores my unwavering commitment to extend Grace and Mercy undo the said convicts which representsde a vital component of his administration’s ongoing Justice Sector Reforms.”
