From Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has extended hand of mercy to 40 inmates serving various jail terms in prison by setting them free.
The initiative emerged from recommendations put forth by the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Among the fortunate beneficiaries, 15 convicts will experience outright release effective from January 12.
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.
The announcement was made by Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, who also chairs the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
The signing of the release orders coincided with the Governor’s 60th birthday.
“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 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).
“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,” the commissioner added.
He emphasized that “this compassionate gesture underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to extend grace and mercy, which represents a vital component of his administration’s ongoing Justice Sector Reforms.”