Ondo Governor Pardons 40 Prisoners To Mark 60th Birthday

By Joseph Sunday 

The Ondo State Governor, Honourable Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has pardoned a total of 40 prisoners to mark his 60th birthday anniversary on earth.

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Making the decision public on Sunday morning, the Chief Press Secretary, CPS, to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa; Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan confirmed the development through a press release circulated to media houses, where he implemented the prerogative of Mercy to the 40 prisoners. 

According to the press release, Adeniyan, said, “owing to the act of compassion displayed by the Ondo State Governor, Honourable Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, ordered the approval of State Pardon to 40 convicts in commemoration of his 60th birthday, describing his gesture as one that reflects a profound commitment to rehabilitation and the transformative power of second chance”.

He went on to point out that the positive initiative arose from the recommendations made by the State’s Advisory Council on the prerogative of Mercy, underscoring the Governor’s dedication to fostering a justice system that prioritizes reform over retribution.

“Among the fortunate beneficiaries, 15 convicts will experience the profound relief of outright release effective from January 12, 2025”. 

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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, SAN, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, who also chairs the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy. 

The signing of the release orders coincides with the governor’s 60th birthday, marking a significant occasion with an act of grace.

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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). 

Dr. Ajulo remarked, “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.”

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He further emphasized that “this compassionate gesture underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to extend Grace and Mercy undo the said convicts which represented a vital component of his administration’s ongoing Justice Sector Reforms.”

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