Governor of Ogun state, Dapo Abiodun has granted perogative of mercy to forty nine inmates in different correctional centres in the state.
The governor announced this during his inaugural address after he was sworn in as Ogun state fifth civilian governor on monday.
The governor also signed a warrant ordering the death sentences imposed on Three death row convicts be immediately converted to prison sentences.
Governor Abiodun explained that The convicts who have received the gesture are inmates who have served long prison sentences with some having been in prison for more than twenty years.
He said, “the Constitution of Nigeria allows me to exercise a prerogative to pardon anybody connected to or convicted of an offence in Ogun State. Thus, having received the guidance from the Council set up to advise me on this prerogative, I have signed the appropriate warrant ordering the immediate release of 49 convicts who are currently imprisoned in different correctional facilities across Ogun State. I have also signed a warrant ordering that the death sentences imposed on 3 death row convicts be immediately converted to prison sentences”.
The governor explained that those who received the gesture include inmates that have served long prison term or have serious medical condition.
“The convicts who have received this gesture today, are inmates who have served long prison sentences with some having been in prison for more than 20 years. At least two of these convicts have serious medical conditions, such as tuberculosis and HIV which even render them a health hazard to the prison community. Three of these convicts are over 60 years old, with one being 84 years old”. Others already have less than two years of their sentences to serve anyway”.
“All of these convicts have shown remorse for their crimes, they have acquired skills and certifications in prison, and they have demonstrated verified good conduct during their imprisonment.”
