New Year: Aiyedatiwa Approves Clemency for 77 Inmates in Ondo State

In a New Year gesture aimed at justice, rehabilitation, and reintegration, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the release and sentence reduction of 77 inmates currently serving various jail terms across correctional centres in the state.

The decision, which took effect as part of the 2026 New Year celebrations, followed recommendations submitted by the Ondo State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy. The council is chaired by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN.

According to an official statement released by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the clemency exercise was carried out after a detailed assessment of eligible inmates. The governor emphasized that the initiative reflects his administration’s belief in second chances, especially for offenders who have demonstrated genuine remorse and positive behavioural changes while in custody.

Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the New Year period presents an opportunity to promote mercy, forgiveness, and social reintegration. He added that individuals who have shown readiness to reform deserve the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.

Speaking further on the process, Dr. Ajulo disclosed that each case was meticulously examined before final recommendations were made. He explained that 12 inmates, who displayed exceptional conduct and had already served substantial portions of their sentences, were granted outright freedom.

In addition, 22 inmates previously sentenced to death had their punishments commuted to life imprisonment or definite jail terms. Other inmates serving life sentences benefited from reduced terms, with new sentence durations adjusted to 25, 20, 15, and 10 years, depending on individual assessments.

Dr. Ajulo explained that the council’s recommendations were guided by multiple considerations. These included the nature of the offence, length of incarceration, behavioural record, age, health status, rehabilitation progress, and the likelihood of successful reintegration into society. Reports from correctional institutions and relevant legal authorities were also carefully reviewed.

“In marking the January 1, 2026, New Year celebration, the Ondo State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy recommended a total of 77 inmates for executive mercy by Mr Governor,” Ajulo stated.

He stressed that the exercise was not arbitrary but rooted in justice, compassion, and public interest, reaffirming the government’s commitment to humane correctional policies and the rule of law.

The development has been widely viewed as a significant step toward prison reform, restorative justice, and reducing congestion in correctional facilities within Ondo State.