Wednesday, December 18, 2024 -Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has directed immediate investigation on the case of one Segun Olowookere who was sentenced to death.
Olowookere was sentenced to death by hanging for theft of chicken.
Governor Adeleke gave this directive through a statement issued by his
spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed on Tuesday.
The governor directed the state’s Attorney General to intervene in the
matter and ensure the young man is listed for prerogative of mercy before the
end of the year.
According to the statement, “I have read about the case. I recognize
separation of powers in our democracy.
“In this particular case, I have directed the Commissioner for Justice
to initiate processes to grant the prerogative of mercy to the young man.
“Osun is a land of justice and equity. We must ensure fairness and
protection of the sanctity of lives.
“I assure the public that the matter is receiving my direct attention. A
sense of urgency is also attached to our response to the matter as a
responsible state government.”
The directive is coming after an appeal for clemency to the governor on
behalf of Segun Olowookere by the World Institute of Peace.
In the appeal, the institute’s Executive Director, Lamina Kamiludeen
Omotoyosi, revealed that Olowookere was sentenced to death 10 years ago when he
was 17 years of age.
Omotoyosi said, “Segun’s conviction stems from an incident involving the
allegation of theft of a fowl and eggs from a poultry farm in Oyan, Osun State
over ten years ago.
“The gravity of a death sentence for such an offence raises significant
ethical questions, particularly when considering the young age at which Segun
was convicted and the minimal value of the items involved.
“However, no justification for any crime but Segun actually pleaded not
guilty to this crime.
“His parents, Folashade and Olanrewaju Olowookere, have been vocal in
their pleas for clemency, expressing their devastation over the loss of their
only son to the confines of prison for over a decade.
“As you are aware, the principles of justice and mercy are foundational
to a progressive society.
“The parents have made heartfelt appeals, emphasising that Segun is a
brilliant young man with a promising future.
“They have endured immense suffering, selling their properties in an
attempt to secure his release, and they continue to hope for a second chance
for their son.
“The weight of the punishment far exceeds the nature of the crime, and it is clear that Segun’s case merits a compassionate review. Please, Mr. Governor.”
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