Ondo State Governor, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Sunday, set free 15 convicted inmates to mark his 60th birthday.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also pardoned 25 other inmates sentenced to death or life imprisonment.
Festivities for Governor’s birthday were cancelled due to the tragic death of the Secretary to the State Government, Hon Oluwatuyi Tayo, popularly known as Tukana.
The inmates who were sentenced to death were commuted to life imprisonment while the jail term of others would be reduced.
Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, announced this.
Ajulo, who is also the chairman of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, said Governor Aiyedatiwa’s action has nurtured renewed hope for reintegration into the society.
He stated that Aiyedatiwa’s hand of mercy to 40 convicts reflected commitment to rehabilitation and the transformative power of second chances.
The AGF said 15 convicts would be released immediately.
He stated, “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 society.
“It is noteworthy that Governor Aiyedatiwa chose to forgo his birthday celebrations in honour of the late Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tuykana), who died last weekend.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa’s actions are in accordance with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).”
