By Divine Sam
A peace advocacy group, the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro), has commended Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, for granting clemency to 53 inmates, including Mr. Segun Olowookere, who had been sentenced to death a decade ago for stealing a fowl and other minor offences. The group, led by Executive Director Abdulrazaq Hamzat, described the pardon as a commendable act that reflects the Governor’s commitment to justice, rehabilitation, and systemic change in Nigeria’s correctional facilities.
Hamzat highlighted that PeacePro had been advocating for Olowookere’s release for over ten years, writing petitions and pursuing legal appeals. The group’s focus on addressing systemic issues in Nigeria’s prisons aligns with Governor Adeleke’s decision, which aims to alleviate the overcrowding and long pre-trial detentions in the nation’s correctional institutions. According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), over 80% of inmates in Nigeria are unsentenced, with many having been detained for longer periods than their alleged offences would warrant.
This act of clemency, PeacePro noted, serves as a symbol of hope and demonstrates the impact of leadership and advocacy in addressing critical human rights and justice issues. The release of Olowookere and the other 52 inmates offers them a second chance at life and redemption after having shown good conduct and served significant portions of their sentences.
The group called for other state governments to follow suit by reviewing the cases of unsentenced inmates, addressing prolonged pre-trial detentions, and ensuring a justice system based on fairness and humanity. PeacePro further urged policymakers, judicial authorities, and the international community to support reforms aimed at upholding human rights and advancing justice in Nigeria.
In closing, PeacePro encouraged the beneficiaries of the amnesty to make the most of their second chance and contribute positively to society.
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