Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, marked the beginning of his new term with an act of clemency, granting freedom and reduced sentences to 43 prisoners.
Acting on the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, Aiyedatiwa ordered the immediate release of eight convicts.
In addition, the sentences of 15 inmates on death row were commuted to prison terms, while 20 prisoners serving life sentences had their terms reduced.
The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, emphasizing that the move was part of the administration’s commitment to justice reform.
“This decision is a testament to Governor Aiyedatiwa’s belief in second chances and the potential for rehabilitation,” said the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN. “It is His Excellency’s responsibility to ensure that our justice system reflects mercy and humanity.”
The clemency aligns with Aiyedatiwa’s broader judicial reforms. In October 2024, he swore in six new judges to strengthen the state’s judiciary, describing the appointments as a significant step for his administration.
Reflecting on his journey to leadership, Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s role in paving the way for his succession. “It has been his wish that I succeed him. He said it on our first day of inauguration,” he recalled.
