Ondo State Governor Grants Clemency

Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Governor of Nigeria — Ondo State, granted clemency to 77 inmates across correctional facilities in Nigeria — Ondo State as part of the New Year celebrations on January 1, 2026. This action followed recommendations from the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by Kayode Ajulo, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. The clemency measures included the outright release of 12 convicts, commutation of death sentences for 22 inmates, and reduction of life imprisonment terms for 39 inmates, along with lesser terms for four others. The decision underscores Lucky Aiyedatiwa's commitment to rehabilitative justice, second chances, and decongesting correctional facilities in Nigeria — Ondo State.