Ododo grants clemency to 101 inmates to mark Independence Day
Summarised from reporting by PM News. Figures trace to that report; check it before relying on them.
Ninety-four inmates received mercy and seven had sentences reduced after review by a new Kogi advisory council on the prerogative of mercy.
Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has granted pardon and other forms of clemency to 101 inmates and convicts, announcing the decision in his Independence Day address on Thursday, PM News reports.
Ododo said 94 beneficiaries received mercy on grounds including old age, medical conditions, good conduct, rehabilitation and remorse, while seven had their sentences reduced. Those granted mercy on age and health grounds include Lamidi Mohammed Garuba, 91, and Ajagbonna Olufemi David, 72.
The cases were reviewed by a seven-member Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, inaugurated on 2 September and chaired by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Muizudeen Yunus Abdullahi. Members visited correctional centres in Koton Karfe, Kabba, Dekina, Ankpa, Idah and Okene.
The governor said the pardon did not mean the offences were no longer serious. "Every second opportunity comes with a greater responsibility," he told the beneficiaries. He also urged young people to reject kidnapping, armed robbery, fraud, cultism and other crimes.
No comments yet. Be the first.