Family Seeks Help as Pardoned ‘Death-for-Fowl’ Convict Allegedly Battles Mental Illness

By: Bayero Ade

The family of Sunday Morakinyo, one of the individuals convicted in the widely criticized “death-for-fowl” case in Osun State, has raised concerns over his mental health following his recent release from prison. They are appealing to the government and concerned members of the public for support to address his condition.

According to PUNCH, Morakinyo was arrested in November 2010 in Oyan, Osun State, for allegedly stealing fowls and eggs worth N20,000. Alongside Segun Olowookere, he was charged with conspiracy, robbery, and theft. Despite denying the accusations, both men were sentenced to death in December 2014 by the Osun State High Court in Ikirun.

After enduring years of incarceration, Morakinyo was pardoned last week by Governor Ademola Adeleke amid public outcry over the case. However, his family revealed that he returned home struggling with a mental disorder that developed during his time in custody.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Morakinyo’s uncle, Ojo Olaide, dismissed suggestions that his nephew had any mental health issues before his arrest. He maintained that Morakinyo was in perfect health when the police detained him.

“He was in good health before his arrest. The allegations of theft were false, and he denied them. Despite this, he was arrested and charged with a crime he did not commit. The police mishandled the case, and the actual perpetrators, who were minors, were sent to welfare homes and later released,” Olaide explained.

Olaide further alleged that the police fabricated confessions to implicate Morakinyo and Olowookere. He claimed the mental health challenges began while Morakinyo was incarcerated at the Ilesa Correctional Centre, where he reportedly endured severe conditions.

Olowookere, Morakinyo’s co-accused, also previously disclosed that their time in police custody involved significant torture, which he believes contributed to Morakinyo’s mental decline.

The family is now seeking immediate assistance to secure the medical attention Morakinyo needs to recover and rebuild his life.