- Safiu Kehinde
Osun state governor, Ademola Adeleke, has intervened over a court ruling sentencing one Segun Olowookere to death for stealing fowl from a poultry farm at Oyan area of the state.
Adeleke, in a statement issued on his official X handle on Tuesday, directed the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to commence full investigation into the matter and initiate processes to grant prerogative of mercy.
The governor’s intervention is coming after an appeal for clemency to the governor on behalf of Segun Olowookere by the World Institute of Peace.
According to reports, the institute’s Executive Director, Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, in the appeal, 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.”
Reacting, Adeleke held that Osun is a land of justice and equity and must ensure fairness and protection of the sanctity of lives as he stepped in to the ruling made ten years ago.
“I have received the report of a case of a young man reportedly sentenced to death by hanging in Osun State for stealing a fowl.
“Consequently, I have directed the Attorney- General and Commissioner for Justice, Osun State to commence full investigation into the matter and initiate processes to grant prerogative of mercy to the young man.
“Osun is a land of justice and equity and must ensure fairness and protection of the sanctity of lives.
“I assure members of the public that this matter is receiving my direct attention with every sense of urgency also attached to our response to the matter.” Adeleke wrote.