Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has extended clemency to 117 convicts as part of his administration’s Independence Day initiative, offering a fresh start to prisoners within the state’s justice system.
The Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress shared the news on its official social X handle on Tuesday.
The Governor’s action aligns with recommendations from the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, underscoring his commitment to rehabilitation and second chances for those previously incarcerated.
Of the 117 beneficiaries, 19 convicts will be released outright, while several inmates facing the death penalty will have their sentences commuted to life imprisonment.
Others will benefit from reduced sentences, providing them with opportunities for reintegration into society.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, speaking on the matter, said, “This is not just about releasing prisoners; it’s about offering hope and fostering a sense of purpose for those who have shown signs of change. We are committed to giving them a second chance to contribute meaningfully to society.”
The initiative reflects a broader move towards ensuring fairer treatment of convicts and enhancing the state’s rehabilitation programs.
Aiyedatiwa added, “Our justice system must also provide pathways for reformation and reintegration, not just punishment.”
