Dare Babalola
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has granted amnesty to seven inmates at the Nigeria Correctional Centre across the state, who were serving various jail terms.
The governor’s office announced the amnesty in a statement released on Tuesday by Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, noting it was a celebratory gesture to mark Governor Aiyedatiwa’s 61st birthday, which fell on Monday.
The statement read, “In a continued demonstration of compassionate and humane leadership, Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has exercised his constitutional prerogative of mercy by granting outright pardon and release to seven additional convicts serving various sentences in correctional facilities across the state.
“This gracious act was to mark Mr Governor’s 61st birthday anniversary and further builds upon the landmark clemency approved on January 1, 2026, during the New Year celebrations.”
The statement noted that the seven beneficiaries of the pardon were carefully selected based on verified reports of genuine remorse, good behaviour, rehabilitation efforts, and strong prospects for successful reintegration into society.
“Their outright release underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s firm belief in the principles of restorative justice, prison decongestion, and the provision of second chances to those who have demonstrated meaningful change.
The Chairman of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, Dr Kayode Ajulo, SAN, commended the Governor for this thoughtful and forward-thinking decision.
“According to him, this reaffirms his administration’s commitment to balancing accountability with mercy, reforming the justice sector, and promoting a society where redemption is possible,” the statement concluded.
Earlier, Governor Aiyedatiwa had granted amnesty to 77 prisoners following thorough recommendations from the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy. The clemency approval granted by the governor was also to celebrate the New Year.
Adeniyan, in a statement, said, “This gracious act, timed to commemorate the January 1, 2026, New Year celebrations, underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s deep commitment to rehabilitative justice, second chances, and the humane side of governance.
“It reflects his belief that the justice system should balance accountability with compassion, particularly for those who have demonstrated genuine remorse and potential for reintegration into society.”
