In celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has exercised his ‘prerogative of mercy’ to grant pardons to 117 inmates serving various sentences in the state’s correctional facilities.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the governor said the initiative aligns with Sections 212 (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
The governor said among the beneficiaries, 19 inmates will be released outright, death sentences will be commuted to prison terms, and others will see their sentences reduced to facilitate their reintegration into society.
The state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo, who chaired the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, said the council meticulously evaluated each application, ensuring adherence to established guidelines while considering various factors.
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In a similar act, Adamawa State governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has pardoned two inmates, Chai Yerima and Mohammed Bapeto, who were serving sentences at the Yola Old Medium Security Custodial Centre and Medium Security Custodial Centre in Jada, in honour of Independence Day.
He urged the freed individuals to take the opportunity for personal reform and to become productive members of society.