Ondo Governor Grants 77 Inmates State Pardon

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has granted clemency to 77 convicts across the state’s correctional facilities, marking a significant act of rehabilitative justice as part of the 2026 New Year celebrations.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, the governor said the pardon was based on recommendations from the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy. The gesture underscores Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to balancing accountability with compassion in the justice system.

“This act reflects the belief that the justice system should not only enforce accountability but also offer second chances to those who have demonstrated genuine remorse and the potential for reintegration into society,” the statement read.

Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, who chairs the Advisory Council, detailed the rigorous process behind the recommendations. The council considered the nature of offenses, time served, conduct and behavior in custody, age and health, rehabilitation progress, and reports from correctional and legal authorities.

The approved clemency measures include:

• Full release for 12 convicts with exemplary conduct and significant portions of their sentences served
• Commutation of death sentences to life imprisonment or fixed terms for 22 inmates
• Reduction of life imprisonment to 25 years for four inmates, 20 years for 14 inmates, 15 years for 15 inmates, and 10 years for six inmates
• Commutation to lesser terms for four other inmates

Ajulo praised the governor for personally reviewing each case to ensure fairness and humanity were upheld. He noted that the clemency initiative reflects a leadership style that prioritizes rehabilitation over mere punishment.

Governor Aiyedatiwa’s action reaffirms his dedication to justice sector reforms, the decongestion of correctional facilities, and fostering hope for redemption among inmates willing to reform.