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Lagos Governor, adjusts death sentence; See the numbers of inmates release

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 10th, 2024.

Lagos Governor, adjusts death sentence; See the numbers of inmates release

Lagos Governor Grants Clemency to 56 Inmates, Adjusts Death Sentence

Governor Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the release of 56 inmates from various correctional facilities throughout the state. This directive, issued on June 25, 2024, also includes commuting a death sentence to life imprisonment and pardoning another inmate.

The Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy put forth these recommendations, according to a statement by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), on Tuesday. He noted that the council’s decision followed a rigorous review process.

“The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy exercised due diligence in its deliberation of the applications in line with the applicable guidelines,” Pedro said. He detailed that the council assessed factors such as reports from correctional authorities, the nature of the offenses, the duration of incarceration, and the inmates’ age, health, and behavior.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s approval is part of his broader efforts to reduce overcrowding in the state’s correctional facilities, aligning with ongoing Justice Sector Reforms. “This approval for the release of the inmates underscores Mr. Governor’s commitment to the decongestion of correctional facilities in Lagos State,” Pedro emphasized.

The governor’s actions aim to improve the efficiency of Lagos’ correctional system while ensuring a balanced and compassionate approach that takes into account the individual circumstances of each case. “The council’s recommendations were based on a thorough review process that ensures justice and compassion, reflecting the state’s dedication to human rights and the rule of law,” Pedro added.