Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji granted clemency to 31 inmates, exercising constitutional powers to promote justice and compassion.
Furthermore, the decision came after a thorough review of 534 clemency petitions submitted by various legal representatives.
Attorney General Dayo Apata announced this decision on Thursday, highlighting the administration’s commitment to reforming the justice system.
By granting clemency, the governor aims to balance punishment with compassion, supporting rehabilitation for those deserving of a second chance.
The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy meticulously assessed applications, prioritizing rehabilitation and societal reintegration. Governor Oyebanji acted under Section 212 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, balancing mercy with public safety.
Two inmates received full pardons, erasing their criminal records entirely. Five death row prisoners saw sentences reduced to life imprisonment, while two others gained fixed prison terms.
Four individuals serving life sentences secured shorter terms of five or ten years. Eighteen inmates nearing release within six months earned immediate freedom to rebuild their lives.
Apata stressed the council’s rigorous process, ensuring only deserving cases advanced. “This reflects fairness and accountability,” he said, aligning with the governor’s vision of restorative justice.
Governor Oyebanji aims to foster second chances while upholding the law’s integrity. The move underscores his commitment to humane governance and systemic reforms in corrections.
Reintegrating the freed individuals requires community support to prevent recidivism, officials noted.
Local nonprofits will offer vocational training and counseling to ease their transition.
Critics argue that such clemency must not undermine deterrence, yet advocates praise its focus on redemption.
“Mercy strengthens justice,” remarked a civil society leader, applauding the governor’s courageous decision.
This decision follows increasing calls to decongest prisons across the nation.
Like many facilities in Nigeria, Ekiti’s prisons confront significant overcrowding and poor living conditions.
Additionally, Oyebanji’s administration has previously invested in prison reforms, including healthcare upgrades and educational programs.
Therefore, this clemency aligns with broader efforts aimed at humanizing the incarceration process.
Families of released inmates expressed profound gratitude, pledging to support their loved ones in starting anew. One mother tearfully thanked the governor for “restoring hope when all seemed lost.”
Meanwhile, victims’ rights groups urged the implementation of balanced policies, emphasizing the need for accountability regarding serious crimes.
They called for transparent criteria in future clemency reviews to maintain public trust.
The governor’s office reaffirmed that violent offenders remained ineligible for pardon. Only nonviolent, well-behaved inmates with demonstrated remorse qualified for consideration.
Legal experts highlighted the constitutional checks preventing misuse of clemency powers. The advisory council’s independent role ensures decisions remain apolitical and merit-based.
Nigeria’s correctional system faces systemic challenges, including delayed trials and inadequate funding. Oyebanji’s move spotlights the need for holistic reforms beyond periodic pardons.
As freed inmates reunite with families, the state monitors their progress through periodic check-ins. Success stories could inspire similar initiatives across other regions.
This act reinforces Ekiti’s reputation for progressive governance, blending tradition with modern justice principles. Residents now watch how these policies shape long-term societal harmony.
The governor’s bold step, though debated, reflects leadership willing to reconcile law with empathy. For the 31 granted clemency, it marks a pivotal chance to rewrite their futures.
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