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Ondo Governor Frees 40 Prison Inmates To Mark His 60th

Published

Sunday, January 12, 2025 at 03:21 PM

Written by Love Patience Tarimoboere

Ondo Governor Frees 40 Prison Inmates To Mark His 60th

As Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State marked his 60th birthday, his milestone was not celebrated with parties or grandeur but with acts of compassion and service.

In a remarkable display of leadership and humanity, the governor ordered the release of 40 prison inmates across the state, offering them a chance at redemption.

The gesture, which underscores his commitment to justice reform and rehabilitation, was confirmed by Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.

Fifteen prisoners were granted outright release on Sunday, January 12, 2025, while others saw their sentences commuted or significantly reduced. Among the pardoned were individuals who had faced death sentences, now commuted to life imprisonment.

A statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, noted that Aiyedatiwa’s decision coincided with his birthday. However, instead of celebrating, the governor observed the day solemnly, mourning the recent loss of the Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tukana), who passed away the previous weekend.

“The governor’s decision to forgo festivities is a reflection of his compassionate leadership, a hallmark of his administration,” the statement read.

Governor Aiyedatiwa’s action aligns with Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution, granting state governors the authority to exercise the prerogative of mercy. Dr. Ajulo explained that the decisions were carefully considered, with inputs from correctional authorities, legal professionals, and community leaders.

“The advisory council assessed various factors, including the inmate’s health, behavior, and the nature of their offenses, ensuring the process was equitable and just,” Ajulo stated.

The pardons are part of Aiyedatiwa’s broader commitment to justice sector reforms in Ondo State, focusing on rehabilitation over retribution. While addressing reporters, Ajulo described the move as a symbolic act to mark the governor’s personal and political journey.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa has chosen to use this milestone in his life to underscore the values of second chances and renewal, reflecting his dedication to uplifting even the most marginalized members of society,” he said.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also paid tribute to Governor Aiyedatiwa on his 60th birthday, commending his impactful leadership and unwavering loyalty to political ideals. In a congratulatory message delivered by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu highlighted the governor’s transformative journey from a member of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) to a key figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The President also praised Aiyedatiwa for his administration’s strides in healthcare and education, as well as his notable contributions as Ondo State’s representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission.

“His grassroots-focused approach to development continues to serve as a template for governance that prioritizes the welfare of citizens,” Tinubu remarked.

As Ondo State reflects on this significant gesture, the governor’s approach to marking his birthday has sparked admiration across the state. His administration continues to focus on impactful reforms, solidifying his legacy as a leader who prioritizes compassion, equity, and service to the people.

Edited By: Chinedu Eze

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Ondo Governor Frees 40 Prison Inmates To Mark His 60th

As Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State marked his 60th birthday, his milestone was not celebrated with parties or grandeur but with acts of compassion and service.

In a remarkable display of leadership and humanity, the governor ordered the release of 40 prison inmates across the state, offering them a chance at redemption.

The gesture, which underscores his commitment to justice reform and rehabilitation, was confirmed by Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.

Fifteen prisoners were granted outright release on Sunday, January 12, 2025, while others saw their sentences commuted or significantly reduced. Among the pardoned were individuals who had faced death sentences, now commuted to life imprisonment.

“The governor’s decision to forgo festivities is a reflection of his compassionate leadership, a hallmark of his administration,” the statement read.

“The advisory council assessed various factors, including the inmate’s health, behavior, and the nature of their offenses, ensuring the process was equitable and just,” Ajulo stated.

The pardons are part of Aiyedatiwa’s broader commitment to justice sector reforms in Ondo State, focusing on rehabilitation over retribution. While addressing reporters, Ajulo described the move as a symbolic act to mark the governor’s personal and political journey.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa has chosen to use this milestone in his life to underscore the values of second chances and renewal, reflecting his dedication to uplifting even the most marginalized members of society,” he said.

The President also praised Aiyedatiwa for his administration’s strides in healthcare and education, as well as his notable contributions as Ondo State’s representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission.

“His grassroots-focused approach to development continues to serve as a template for governance that prioritizes the welfare of citizens,” Tinubu remarked.

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