In a bid to decongest correctional facilities and provide a second chance for reformed individuals, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has granted clemency to 49 inmates. The move is in line with the Governor’s aim to reform the criminal justice system in Lagos and promote rehabilitation as a means to reduce recidivism.
The Governor made the announcement during his visit to the Ikoyi Prison on Independence Day, where he personally released some of the affected inmates. The gesture is part of the Governor’s efforts towards fulfilling his campaign promise to improve the state’s justice system, which he believes is overburdened with a backlog of cases.
Speaking with reporters, the Governor emphasized the importance of giving inmates a second chance to contribute meaningfully to society. According to him, the clemency will inspire others to turn a new leaf and embrace a more positive lifestyle, while also giving the freed inmates a chance to start over.
In granting the clemency, the Governor considered the recommendations of the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, which reviewed the cases of the inmates. The Council comprised of legal practitioners, religious leaders, and civil society representatives, who assessed each case individually and recommended those deemed deserving of the clemency.
According to the Governor, the gesture was not only aimed at reducing the burden on correctional facilities, but also to promote the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates into society. He urged the freed inmates to be of good conduct and contribute positively to their communities.
The State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN), also spoke with reporters, stating that the clemency was granted to inmates who had shown genuine remorse and had met the conditions for release. The conditions for release included good behavior, proximity to completion of sentence, and avoidance of offenses warranting imprisonment.
In conclusion, the Governor’s decision to grant clemency to 49 inmates is a step in the right direction towards promoting a more just and humane criminal justice system. The move is a sign of his commitment to rehabilitation and the reintegration of inmates into society, a necessary step towards reducing recidivism and promoting a safer Lagos.
