Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has granted clemency to Segun Olowookere, a man sentenced to death for stealing a fowl, sparking widespread public interest and debate surrounding justice and rehabilitation.
Olowookere, who was merely 17 years old at the time of his arrest in November 2010, was convicted for conspiracy to commit armed robbery, robbery, and stealing. He received the death sentence from an Osun State High Court on December 17, 2014. His case has since drawn significant attention, particularly after his mother’s emotional plea on a podcast, where she called for intervention to secure her son’s release.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the story garnered immense support on social media, leading Governor Adeleke to take action.
Responding to the public outcry, the governor directed the state’s attorney general to review the case, which ultimately resulted in Olowookere receiving a pardon along with his co-convict, Sunday Morakinyo.
Adeleke’s decision has reignited discussions about the Nigerian justice system, particularly concerning individuals sentenced to death for relatively minor crimes.
Many advocates and activists have hailed the governor’s action as a step toward a more humane approach to law and punishment.
Critics, however, have questioned the implications of pardoning convicted individuals, urging a careful evaluation of the judicial process to ensure that it protects the interests of society while also allowing for compassion.
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