OSUN STATE GOVERNOR PARDONS “DEATH-FOR-FOWL” CONVICT, SEGUN OLOWOOKERE

In a remarkable display of mercy and justice, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has pardoned Segun Olowookere, the young man famously known as the “death-for-fowl” convict, alongside his co-convict Sunday Morakinyo. Olowookere was sentenced to death in 2014 at the age of 17 for stealing fowl, a conviction that sparked widespread outrage and calls for clemency.

The pardon comes after Olowookere’s mother, Folashade, made a heartfelt appeal on a podcast, sharing her son’s story and pleading for intervention. Governor Adeleke was moved by the story and directed the state’s attorney general to initiate the process for Olowookere’s pardon.

Adeleke’s decision is a significant move, highlighting the importance of mercy and justice in the Nigerian legal system. The pardon also extends to 51 other inmates, who will be released from prison.

BACKGROUND OF THE CASE

Segun Olowookere was arrested in 2013 for stealing fowl in Osogbo, Osun State. He was subsequently charged to court and sentenced to death in 2014. The conviction sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for clemency due to Olowookere’s young age and the relatively minor nature of the offense.

Olowookere’s mother, Folashade, has been advocating for her son’s release since his conviction. Her recent appeal on a podcast caught the attention of Governor Adeleke, who was moved by the story and decided to intervene.

REACTIONS TO THE PARDON

The pardon has been widely welcomed by human rights groups and advocates for justice reform. “This is a victory for justice and mercy,” said a spokesperson for the Nigerian Human Rights Commission. “We commend Governor Adeleke for his compassion and commitment to upholding the rights of all citizens.”

Olowookere’s family has also expressed gratitude to Governor Adeleke for his intervention. “We are overjoyed by the news of Segun’s pardon,” said Folashade, Olowookere’s mother. “We thank Governor Adeleke for his kindness and compassion. We look forward to being reunited with our son soon.”

IMPACT OF THE PARDON

The pardon of Segun Olowookere and 51 other inmates is a significant development in the Nigerian justice system. It highlights the importance of mercy and compassion in the administration of justice and demonstrates the power of advocacy and public pressure in shaping policy.

The pardon is also expected to have a positive impact on Olowookere’s life and the lives of his family members. After spending several years in prison, Olowookere will now have the opportunity to rebuild his life and reintegrate into society.

As Governor Adeleke’s administration continues to prioritize justice reform and human rights, the pardon of Segun Olowookere serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and mercy in the pursuit of justice.