In a significant demonstration of compassion and commitment to justice reform, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has granted clemency to 77 inmates in correctional facilities across the state, as part of the New Year 2026 celebrations.
This is contained in a statement issued by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan on Thursday.
Acting on recommendations from the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, the Governor personally reviewed each case, ensuring that fairness and humanity guided every decision.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, who chairs the Advisory Council, explained that the review process considered the nature of the offences, the length of time served, the conduct and behaviour of inmates in custody, as well as their age, health conditions, and prospects for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Some inmates were released outright for exemplary behaviour, while others benefited from commutations of death sentences to life terms or fixed prison terms.
Additionally, several inmates serving life sentences had their terms reduced, reflecting the Governor’s belief in balancing accountability with opportunities for redemption.
Dr. Ajulo described the Governor’s action as a forward-looking approach that emphasises rehabilitation over mere punishment, while also contributing to the decongestion of correctional facilities.
He said the clemency granted would foster hope among convicts who have demonstrated genuine remorse and the desire to reform, highlighting Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to humane governance and justice sector reform.
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