Breaking News: Ekiti Governor Pardons, Frees 31 Prisoners

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has exercised his constitutional powers to grant state pardon to 31 inmates serving various convictions within the Nigerian Correctional Service in the state.

This decision was made following a thorough review and recommendation by the State’s Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, headed by the Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dayo Apata SAN.

The council received a total of 534 applications from inmates across various correctional facilities, including those in Lagos and Ogun states.

The pardon, which is in line with Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution, demonstrates the governor’s commitment to upholding justice and mercy. The breakdown of the pardon includes two inmates who have been granted full pardon, five whose death sentences have been commuted to life imprisonment, and two whose death sentences have been commuted to terms of imprisonment.

Additionally, four inmates serving life imprisonment have had their sentences reduced to 5 and 10 years, while 18 inmates with less than six months left to serve will be released immediately.

The Attorney General, Apata, noted that the council’s decision was guided by the principles of justice, mercy, and rehabilitation. He explained that the council had liaised with the custodial centers and reviewed all cases forwarded to it, identifying 31 inmates who had demonstrated good conduct and had the potential to contribute positively to society.

These inmates were subsequently recommended to the governor for consideration and approval.

The council’s thorough review process involved a comprehensive assessment of the inmates’ records and representations made on their behalf. The council’s meeting on March 6, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the process, as it was during this meeting that the 31 inmates were identified and recommended for pardon.

The Attorney General expressed his gratitude to the governor for his magnanimity in granting this relief to the inmates, emphasizing the hope that the pardoned individuals would seize this opportunity to reform and become productive members of society.

The pardon granted by Governor Oyebanji serves as a testament to the importance of mercy and rehabilitation in the justice system. By giving these 31 inmates a second chance, the governor has demonstrated his commitment to creating a more just and compassionate society. As the pardoned inmates reintegrate into their communities, it is hoped that they will make a positive impact and contribute to the betterment of Ekiti State.