The decision was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, who said the pardon was part of the governor’s continued commitment to compassionate and humane leadership.
The statement said Gov. Aiyedatiwa exercised his constitutional prerogative of mercy by approving the outright release of the seven convicts, following recommendations from the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
“This gracious act was to mark the governor’s 61st birthday anniversary and further builds upon the landmark clemency approved on January 1, 2026, during the New Year celebrations,” the statement read.
It noted that the beneficiaries were selected based on verified assessments of genuine remorse, good conduct, rehabilitation efforts, and strong prospects for successful reintegration into society.
The statement added that the decision reflects the governor’s belief in restorative justice, prison decongestion, and the importance of offering second chances to reformed inmates.
Commenting on the development, the Chairman of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, Kayode Ajulo, SAN, commended the governor for what he described as a thoughtful and forward-looking decision.
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He said the action reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to balancing accountability with mercy, strengthening justice sector reforms, and promoting a society where redemption is encouraged.
Gov. Aiyedatiwa had earlier granted amnesty to 77 inmates across the state during the 2026 New Year celebrations, following similar recommendations from the advisory council.
However, the governor’s media aide explained that the New Year clemency underscores the governor’s dedication to rehabilitative justice and humane governance.
“It reflects his belief that the justice system should balance accountability with compassion, especially for individuals who have shown genuine remorse and readiness to reintegrate into society,” he said.
