Gov Adeleke’s Bold Move: Clemency for Man Sentenced to Death Over Fowl Theft

Compassion in Leadership: Gov Adeleke Intervenes in Controversial Death Sentence

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has intervened in the case of Segun Olowookere, a young man sentenced to death by hanging for stealing a fowl.

In a statement released on December 17, 2024, the Governor directed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to conduct a full investigation and initiate processes to grant Olowookere a prerogative of mercy before the end of the year.

Olowookere, who was 17 years old at the time of the offense, was convicted by an Osun State High Court in Ikirun for robbing a poultry farm in Oyan, Odo-Otin Local Government Area, stealing a fowl and eggs.

He has been incarcerated for over a decade and is currently held at Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison.

The Governor’s intervention follows public outcry over the severity of the punishment for what is considered a minor offense.

Olowookere’s parents 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.

Governor Adeleke emphasized that Osun State is committed to justice and equity, stating, “We must ensure fairness and protection of the sanctity of lives.”

He assured the public that the matter is receiving his direct attention with a sense of urgency.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDtQ5UTt8_i/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=b18b97b6-ada5-4d07-a3b0-4f4cd23560a3