Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has authorized the release of 56 inmates from various correctional facilities in the state, along with the conversion of one death sentence to life imprisonment and the granting of a pardon to another inmate. This decision was made based on the advice of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy and in accordance with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended).
The statement issued by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, highlighted that the Advisory Council meticulously reviewed each application for clemency, considering factors such as the nature of the offense, length of incarceration, age, health, and conduct of the inmates. The council’s recommendations were guided by established guidelines to ensure fairness and transparency in the decision-making process.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s action aims to alleviate congestion in Lagos State correctional facilities as part of broader justice sector reforms. The release, commutation, and pardon orders were signed by the governor on June 25, 2024, underscoring the administration’s commitment to promoting justice and rehabilitation within the state’s correctional system.