Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, marked his swearing-in on Monday with an act of clemency, granting pardons and reduced sentences to 43 inmates.
In response to the recommendations from the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, Aiyedatiwa ordered the immediate release of eight convicts, commuted the death sentences of 15 inmates to prison terms, and reduced the jail terms of 20 others serving life sentences.
A statement from the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, emphasized Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to justice reform and second chances.
“This decision is a testament to Governor Aiyedatiwa’s belief in second chances and the potential for rehabilitation,” said the 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 move aligns with Aiyedatiwa’s broader judicial reforms. In October 2024, he swore in six new judges to strengthen the state’s legal system, stating, “This is particularly fulfilling for me, as it marks the second time in our administration’s history that appointments to the Bench of the state judiciary have been made and in such a large number.”
During his inauguration, Aiyedatiwa reflected on his journey and the legacy of his late predecessor, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. “It has been his wish that I succeed him. He said it on our first day of inauguration,” he remarked.