Aiyedatiwa cancels 60th birthday celebration, pardons 40 inmates

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has pardoned no fewer than 40 inmates serving various jail terms across the various correctional centres in Ondo State. The clemency was to commemorate his 60th birthday anniversary, which was cancelled in honour of the late Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tayo Oluwatuyi, who died last weekend after an auto crash a few weeks ago.

With 15 of the convicts regaining immediate freedom, others on death row had their death sentences commuted to life imprisonment, with some of the inmates also given reduced sentences.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, said the gesture followed recommendations from the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, “with a commitment to rehabilitation and second chances within the justice system.”

According to the governor, the move underscored his dedication to fostering a justice system that prioritises reform over retribution. While stressing that the move would pave the way for renewed hope and opportunities for reintegration into society, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, who is also Chairman of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, Kayode Ajulo, explained that the governor’s action was in accordance with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

He said: “Among the fortunate beneficiaries, 15 convicts will experience the profound relief of outright release effective from January 12, 2025.

“In a further demonstration of mercy, several death sentences will be commuted to life imprisonment, while others will see their terms of incarceration reduced, thereby nurturing renewed hope for reintegration into society.

“The signing of the release orders coincides with the governor’s 60th birthday, marking a significant occasion with an act of grace.

“It is noteworthy that Governor Aiyedatiwa chose to forgo his birthday celebrations in honour of the late Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tuykana), who died last weekend.

“The Council’s deliberations were enriched by insights from correctional authorities, legal experts, and esteemed community members, focusing on the nature of the offences, duration of incarceration, age, health, and behaviour of the inmates.”