Abiodun sworn in, reverses death sentence on three convicts, pardons 49 inmates

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has been sworn in for another term of four years. Abiodun took the oath of office, yesterday, at the MKO Stadium, Abeokuta, the state capital.

In his address, the governor, who ordered the release of 49 convicts currently serving jail terms in different correctional facilities across the state, also commuted death sentences of three convicts to life imprisonment. He said that those granted pardon included an 84-year-old inmate and others who were above 60 years of age.

The governor said some of the pardoned inmates had been behind bars for more than 20 years, while others had serious medical conditions.

“I have signed the appropriate warrant ordering the immediate release of 49 convicts who are currently imprisoned in different correctional facilities across Ogun State.

“I have also signed a warrant ordering that the death sentences imposed on three death row convicts be immediately converted to prison sentences.

“The convicts, who have received this gesture today, are inmates that have served long prison sentences with some having been in prison for more than 20 years. Two of these convicts have serious medical conditions.

“Ogun State of our dream is not only for one class of persons. It is not for the perfect. It is an inclusive state that gives opportunities to the law-abiding, and second chance to deserving offenders.”