By HeapNews
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, marked his 60th birthday with a remarkable act of compassion, granting clemency to 40 convicts in a move that underscores his commitment to justice reform and rehabilitation.
The governor’s decision, made on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, reflects a justice system focused on second chances. Among the beneficiaries, 15 convicts will be released outright, effective January 12, 2025, while others will see their sentences reduced or commuted from death to life imprisonment.
Announcing the clemency, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, highlighted the governor’s thoughtful and deliberate approach. “The Council’s deliberations were enriched by insights from correctional authorities, legal experts, and community representatives, taking into account the offenses, duration of incarceration, age, health, and behaviour of the inmates,” he stated.
Dr. Ajulo further explained that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s action aligns with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), adding, “This compassionate gesture underscores the governor’s unwavering commitment to extend grace and mercy as part of his administration’s ongoing Justice Sector Reforms.”
The release orders were signed on the governor’s birthday, a day he chose to commemorate quietly in honour of the late Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tuykana), who passed away last weekend.