Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has granted clemency to Olowookere and 52 other convicts. These include individuals sentenced to death for serious crimes. This decision was made after careful consideration of their good behaviour while in custody. Segun Olowookere, among others, was originally sentenced to death for armed robbery.
Olowookere and his co-defendant Sunday Morakinyo were found guilty of conspiring to rob a victim. The crime that resulted in their lengthy prison sentences. Governor Adeleke, in his exercise of executive power, has now commuted their sentences, granting them a pardon based on their good behaviour during incarceration.
The clemency for Olowookere has sparked mixed reactions among members of the public. Some have praised the governor for showing mercy. But others have questioned the fairness of pardoning individuals convicted of violent crimes.
Reactions as gov grants clemency to Olowookere
Many legal experts have argued that granting clemency to those convicted of serious crimes, like armed robbery, could set a dangerous precedent. They fear that it may undermine the severity of such offenses. On the other hand, some believe that clemency is essential in reforming the justice system. They argue that system should focused on rehabilitation.
Several members of the public who expressed concerns on social media platforms, demand more transparency pardoning processes.
In addition to Olowookere and Morakinyo, the governor also pardoned others sentenced for capital offenses. They include Tunde Olapade and Demola Odeyemi, who were also serving death sentences.
Adeleke also granted health-based releases to six individuals convicted of capital offenses, acknowledging their deteriorating conditions in prison. Moreover, he commuted one convict’s death sentence to 15 years in prison after serving 10 years behind bars.
The governor equally pardoned 12 persons sent to jail for simple offenses. 30 others persons were released from custody. Adeleke expressed his hope that this act of mercy would allow the convicts to reintegrate into society and live better lives.
Legal basis for clemency
Governor Adeleke’s decision was made in accordance with Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The law grants the state governor the authority to grant pardons or commutations for those convicted of crimes.
In a statement, the governor referred to the powers conferred on him under this section of the constitution. He affirmed that this action was taken in the interest of justice, rehabilitation, and compassion.
Leave feedback about this