Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has granted state pardons to 43 inmates across various correctional centres in the state, in a move aimed at commemorating his inauguration and promoting reformative justice.
The clemency, announced on Monday, saw eight convicts immediately released, 15 inmates on death row had their sentences commuted to various jail terms, while 20 others serving life sentences had their terms reduced.
This act was based on the recommendations of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo.
In a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Monday, February 24, 2025, the governor’s decision was praised as a demonstration of his commitment to a humane justice system focused on rehabilitation and reintegration of convicts into society.
“As part of this initiative, the governor has ordered the outright release of eight individuals who were previously incarcerated.
“Additionally, 15 condemned inmates who were sentenced to death by hanging have had their sentences commuted to various prison terms, while 20 other convicts serving life imprisonment have also had their sentences adjusted to more lenient terms.
“This momentous decision was made to commemorate Governor Aiyedatiwa’s swearing-in today, reflecting his commitment to reformative justice and humane governance,” the statement read.
