Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has extended the hand of mercy to 40 inmates serving various jail terms by setting them free.
According to the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), the pardon highlights the governor’s dedication to mercy and rehabilitation.
The pardons, granted on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, include the outright release of 15 convicts effective Sunday, 12 January 2025
- A statement titled, “Aiyedatiwa Pardons 40 Prisoners to Celebrate 60th Birthday,” and signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, disclosed the development.
In addition to the releases, several death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment, while other inmates had their sentences significantly reduced.
Dr Ajulo, who also chairs the advisory council, explained that these decisions were informed by careful deliberations, considering the nature of offences, the inmates’ age, health, behaviour, and duration of incarceration.
“This compassionate gesture underscores Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to extending grace and mercy to these convicts,” Ajulo stated.
“It represents a vital component of his administration’s ongoing justice sector reforms. The signing of the release orders coincides with the governor’s 60th birthday, marking a significant occasion with an act of grace,” the statement said.
The governor’s act of mercy coincided with a sombre moment for the state, as the governor chose to forgo birthday celebrations in honour of the late Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tukana), who passed away last weekend.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa’s actions align with Section 212 (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which empowers state governors to exercise the prerogative of mercy.
“The Council’s recommendations were enriched by insights from correctional authorities, legal experts, and respected community leaders, ensuring fairness and compassion in the decision-making process,” the statement added.
Earlier, President Bola Tinubu congratulated Governor Aiyedatiwa on his 60th birthday.
In a statement on Saturday, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commended Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to political ideals and grassroots development, hailing his exceptional political journey and dedication to public service.
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The statement partly read, “President Bola Tinubu rejoices with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State on his 60th birthday tomorrow, January 12, 2025,”
“President Tinubu commends Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering dedication and political consistency, beginning from his membership of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in 2011.
“His steadfastness throughout the party’s metamorphosis and final transition to the All Progressives Congress (APC) exemplifies his loyalty, dedication, and commitment.
“Aiyedatiwa’s impressive political trajectory is a testament to the potential and possibilities in Nigerian politics.”
Tinubu added that Aiyedatiwa’s governance achievements, particularly his landmark electoral victory in 2024, paved the way for significant advancements in the health and education sectors, positively impacting the lives of Ondo State residents.
