Group Lauds Gov Adeleke For Pardoning Man Convicted For Fowl Theft, 52 Others
The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has praised Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, for granting a pardon to 53 inmates, including Mr. Segun Olowookere, who had been sentenced to death for stealing a fowl.
In a statement released in Ilorin, Kwara State, by its Executive Director, Mr. AbdulRazaq Hamzat, the group commended the Governor’s act of compassion. They highlighted that the pardon not only reflects Governor Adeleke’s commitment to justice and rehabilitation, but also serves as a model for others in Nigeria and beyond.
PeacePro, which has been actively involved in advocating for the release of Olowookere, noted that for over a decade, it had pursued legal appeals on his behalf and petitioned the government for clemency when judicial processes slowed. The group stated that Governor Adeleke’s decision aligned with their mission to decongest Nigeria’s correctional facilities and promote restorative justice.
The statement emphasized that over 80% of inmates in Nigeria are unsentenced, with many detained for longer periods than their alleged offenses warrant. PeacePro called this a human rights issue that requires immediate attention.
“We celebrate this milestone, and Mr. Olowookere’s case has become a symbol of hope, driving systemic change. His release, alongside 52 others, demonstrates the potential for leadership and advocacy to address pressing societal issues,” the group stated.
The group also lauded Adeleke’s administration for granting clemency and giving a new lease on life to individuals who have shown good conduct and served significant portions of their sentences. They urged other state governments to follow suit by reviewing cases of unsentenced inmates, addressing prolonged pre-trial detentions, and fostering a justice system based on fairness and humanity.
