Osun State Governor Pardons 36 Convicts on Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary

In a gesture of goodwill and compassion, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has granted pardon to 36 inmates serving jail terms in the state’s correctional facilities.

The decision was made to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary and was announced by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

According to Rasheed, the pardon was based on the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy and in line with Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The beneficiaries include men and women convicted of minor offenses such as stealing and conspiracy, who had served substantial portions of their sentences.

The list of pardoned inmates includes individuals from both the Ilesa and Ile-Ife correctional centers. Governor Adeleke emphasized that the decision reflects the spirit of compassion, justice, and renewal that Nigeria’s Independence Day represents.

The governor’s gesture has brought relief to the affected individuals and their families. Meanwhile, residents of Osun State capital, Osogbo, observed the Independence Day holiday with light traffic on major roads and low patronage at markets and businesses.

Some traders attributed the low patronage to the public holiday and the economic challenges facing the country. Despite this, the governor’s decision to pardon the inmates has been seen as a welcome development, highlighting the importance of compassion and rehabilitation in the justice system.