Ondo Governor Aiyedatiwa Grants Clemency to 43 Prisoners

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, marked his swearing-in on Monday with a notable act of clemency, granting freedom and reducing the sentences of 43 prisoners.

Following the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, Aiyedatiwa ordered the immediate release of eight inmates, while 15 death row prisoners had their sentences commuted to prison terms. Additionally, 20 prisoners serving life sentences had their jail terms reduced.

This decision was outlined in a statement released on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan. The statement, titled “Inauguration: Gov Aiyedatiwa Extends Mercy to 43 Prisoners,” emphasized the governor’s commitment to justice reform.

“This decision is a testament to Governor Aiyedatiwa’s belief in second chances and the potential for rehabilitation,” said Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. “It is His Excellency’s responsibility to ensure that our justice system reflects mercy and humanity.”

The move aligns with Aiyedatiwa’s broader goals for judicial reforms. In October 2024, he swore in six new judges to strengthen the state’s legal system, stating, “This is particularly fulfilling for me, as it marks the second time in our administration’s history that appointments to the Bench of the state judiciary have been made—and in such a large number.”

The inauguration also holds personal significance for Aiyedatiwa. Reflecting on his journey, he said, “It has been his [late Governor Akeredolu’s] wish that I succeed him. He said it on our first day of inauguration.”

With his second term officially underway, Aiyedatiwa has set a clear tone for his government: one focused on justice, fairness, and second chances, the statement concluded.