Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has granted pardon to at least 77 inmates serving various terms across correctional facilities in the state. The decision, announced in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, was made based on the recommendation of the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy. The council, headed by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, SAN, considered factors such as the nature of the offence, length of time served, conduct and behaviour in custody, age, and health condition.
The pardon was granted in the spirit of the new year, with the governor believing that convicts who have shown remorse deserve a second chance. According to Dr Ajulo, each case was thoroughly reviewed, resulting in the release of 12 convicts who demonstrated exemplary conduct and completed significant portions of their sentences. Additionally, 22 condemned inmates had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment or fixed terms, while others serving life imprisonment had their terms reduced to 25, 20, 15, and 10 years.
The State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy considered reports from correctional and legal authorities, as well as rehabilitation and reintegration prospects, before making its recommendations. The council’s decision is a significant development in the state’s justice system, highlighting the importance of rehabilitation and second chances for offenders. The pardon is also seen as a gesture of goodwill, marking the beginning of the new year.
In Ondo State, the power to grant pardon is vested in the governor, who is advised by the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy. The council’s role is to review cases and make recommendations based on merit. The recent pardon is expected to bring relief to the families of the affected inmates and highlights the state’s commitment to justice and rehabilitation.
The decision to grant pardon to the inmates is in line with the state’s goal of promoting rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society. As the state continues to develop its justice system, the recent pardon serves as a reminder of the importance of second chances and the need for a fair and compassionate approach to justice. With the pardon, the affected inmates are expected to reintegrate into society, and the state is likely to continue exploring ways to promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism.