Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday marked his 61st birthday by granting pardon to seven convicts serving various sentences in correctional centres across the state.
The gesture, described as an act of compassion and humane leadership, was carried out through the governor’s constitutional prerogative of mercy.
The pardon builds on an earlier clemency granted on January 1, 2026, when Aiyedatiwa approved the release of 77 convicts following recommendations by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
According to the government, the seven beneficiaries were selected after thorough assessments which confirmed genuine remorse, good conduct, commitment to rehabilitation and strong prospects for successful reintegration into society.
The latest release, the state said, reflects the governor’s belief in restorative justice, prison decongestion and the importance of offering second chances to reformed offenders.
Commenting on the development, the Chairman of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy and Attorney-General of Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, commended the governor for what he described as a thoughtful and progressive decision.
Ajulo said the action reaffirmed the Aiyedatiwa administration’s commitment to balancing justice with mercy, reforming the justice system and fostering a society where redemption remains possible.
