Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has pardoned 43 convicts to mark his inauguration as the state’s seventh elected governor, following his victory in the November 16, 2024, governorship election.
This decision, announced by his spokesperson, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Monday, stemmed from recommendations by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Kayode Ajulo.
In granting the pardon, Gov. Aiyedatiwa ordered the release of eight individuals and commuted the death sentences of 15 other inmates to various prison terms.
Additionally, the sentences of 20 convicts serving life imprisonment were adjusted to more lenient terms.
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This move was intended to reflect the governor’s commitment to reformative justice and humane governance, while also addressing issues within the penal system and promoting the reintegration of individuals into society.
“As part of this initiative, the governor has ordered the outright release of eight individuals who were previously incarcerated.
“Additionally, 15 condemned inmates who were sentenced to death by hanging have had their sentences commuted to various prison terms, while 20 other convicts serving life imprisonment have also had their sentences adjusted to more lenient terms.
“This momentous decision was made to commemorate Governor Aiyedatiwa’s swearing-in today, reflecting his commitment to reformative justice and humane governance,” the government said.
The governor’s action, it added, aligns with his ongoing efforts to address issues within the penal system and to promote the reintegration of individuals into society as productive.
