Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has granted the prerogative of mercy to seven convicted inmates serving various jail terms across the Nigerian Correctional Centres in the state.

According to the statement, the seven beneficiaries were carefully selected based on verified reports of genuine remorse, good conduct, commitment to rehabilitation, and strong prospects for successful reintegration into society.

The move is part of activities marking the governor’s 61st birthday, according to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan.

The latest pardon comes barely days after a major New Year clemency approved by Aiyedatiwa on January 1, 2026, in which sentences of 77 inmates were commuted following recommendations by the Ondo State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

The statement reads, “Their outright release underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s firm belief in the principles of restorative justice, prison decongestion, and the provision of second chances to those who have demonstrated meaningful change.”

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Meanwhile, the Chairman of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, Kayode Ajulo, SAN, has commended the governor for the decision, describing it as thoughtful and forward-looking.

Ajulo noted that the gesture reaffirms the administration’s commitment to balancing accountability with compassion, reforming the justice sector, and promoting a society where redemption remains possible.

Source: Nation