Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has granted amnesty to 40 prison inmates serving various jail terms, as part of his 60th birthday celebrations. This compassionate act was announced by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo (SAN), who is also the Chairman of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, the decision highlighted Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to reform and rehabilitation within the state’s justice system. The move was made following recommendations from the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

A total of 40 convicts will benefit from this gesture, with 15 of them set to be released on January 12, 2025. In addition to granting releases, some death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment, and others had their sentences reduced. This initiative aims to provide a second chance for those who have shown remorse and a readiness to reintegrate into society.

Governor Aiyedatiwa’s action aligns with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which empowers the state governor to grant pardons or commute sentences.

Meanwhile, former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, extended his congratulations to Aiyedatiwa on his 60th birthday. In his message, Mimiko wished the governor joy and happiness, praying for continued divine guidance and wisdom in his governance.

Mimiko also acknowledged the challenges Aiyedatiwa will face as he embarks on a full four-year term and expressed hope for the governor’s success and well-being.