June 12: Abiodun Commutes Death Sentences For 45 Inmates, Frees 41 Others In Ogun
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has taken a significant step towards criminal justice reform by commuting the death sentences of 45 inmates and granting pardons to 41 others.
This announcement was made during the 2024 Democracy Day celebrations held at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State .
In his address, Governor Abiodun emphasised the importance of mercy and justice in upholding democratic values.
He stated, “Government has a duty to uphold democratic values by consistently applying principles of mercy, justice, and the rule of law.
“ In this vein, the Nigerian Constitution empowers me to exercise a prerogative of mercy to anyone convicted of an offence in Ogun State.”
Abiodun explained that his decisions were guided by the recommendations of the Ogun State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
He signed the necessary warrants for the release of 41 convicts and converted the death sentences of 45 inmates to lesser prison terms
He noted that this act represents a move towards a more inclusive and compassionate society, offering second chances to those who have shown genuine remorse and rehabilitation.
The governor highlighted that the inmates who benefited from this clemency had demonstrated good conduct, acquired new skills, and even obtained university degrees through the National Open University of Nigeria during their imprisonment.
This, he said, is a testament to their readiness to reintegrate into society and contribute positively.
The Democracy Day celebration holds profound significance as it commemorates the triumph of democracy in Nigeria. Governor Abiodun remarked, “June 12, 1993, stands as a watershed moment in this journey.
“ On that particular day, Nigerians transcended differences of tribe, gender, and even the unique joint Muslim-Muslim ticket to speak unanimously through the ballot.”
The governor recounted the historic election of June 12, 1993, which saw Chief Moshood Kasimawo Olawale Abiola and Babagana Kingibe of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) elected as President and Vice-President.
Despite the military’s annulment of the election, it remains a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic history, symbolising the power of unity and resilience.
Abiodun honoured the legacy of the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, describing him as a trailblazer from Ogun State whose courage and commitment to democratic ideals continue to inspire.
He reflected on Abiola’s campaign slogan, “Hope ’93,” as a national call to faith and the limitless potential of Nigerians.
As part of the celebration, the governor called on Nigerians to remain committed to democracy, urging them to address challenges through dialogue and democratic processes rather than resorting to military intervention.
“Whatever the challenges we are having, let’s fight, let us argue, let us disagree, let us abuse each other, but never should we be tempted to invite the military,” he advised.
