To commemorate the 2024 Democracy Day celebrations, Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun announced the commutation of death sentences for 45 condemned prisoners to prison terms.
Additionally, he granted pardons to 41 other inmates across various correctional centres in the state, News About Nigeria reports.
Speaking at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun exercised his prerogative of mercy, stating that the government must uphold democratic values through principles of mercy, justice, and the rule of law.
“Having received the guidance of the Ogun State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, I have signed the appropriate warrants ordering the release of 41 convicts currently imprisoned across different correctional facilities in Ogun State. I have also signed warrants converting the death sentences of 45 inmates to prison sentences,” Abiodun stated.
Governor Abiodun said that all the pardoned convicts had shown remorse, acquired skills and certifications, and demonstrated good conduct during their imprisonment, with several even obtaining university degrees from the National Open University of Nigeria.
The governor recalled the watershed moment of June 12, 1993, when Nigerians united across various divides to elect Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and Babagana Kingibe of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) as President and Vice-President, respectively.
Although the election was annulled by the military, it remains an important moment in Nigeria’s democratic history.
Governor Abiodun lauded the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola as a trailblazer from Ogun State, whose courage and commitment to democratic ideals continue to inspire.
News About Nigeria reported that Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang also exercised his constitutional powers on Wednesday by granting clemency to 13 inmates, setting them free from prison.
