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Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has commuted the death sentences of 45 convicted prisoners to prison terms.
He also granted clemency to 41 other inmates who were serving in different correctional centers throughout the state.
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Speaking at the 2024 Democracy Day held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Abiodun said the decision was taken in the exercise of his prerogative of mercy as governor of the state.
“The government has the duty to defend democratic values by systematically applying the principles of mercy, justice and the rule of law. In this regard, the Nigerian Constitution empowers me to exercise the prerogative of mercy on any person convicted of a crime in Ogun State.
“Having received guidance from the Ogun State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, I have signed appropriate orders directing the release of 41 convicts currently incarcerated in different correctional facilities in Ogun State. I have also signed orders to convert the death sentences of 45 inmates to prison sentences.
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“This gesture marks a break with past grievances and a step towards a more inclusive and compassionate society where merciful second chances are granted to deserving criminals,” Mr Abiodun said.
The governor stated that all prisoners who received the gesture had shown remorse for their crimes, acquired skills and certifications in prison, and several of them received university degrees from the National Open University of Nigeria.
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He added that they have also demonstrated proven good conduct during their incarceration.
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Abiodun stressed that the celebration of Democracy Day had immense significance as it marks the triumph of democracy, people power and the pursuit of justice and freedom, while observing that the history of Nigeria’s democracy is a story of struggle and perseverance.
“June 12, 1993 marked a milestone in this journey. On that particular day, Nigerians transcended differences of tribe, gender and even the unique joint Muslim-Muslim formula to speak unanimously through voting.
“They elected the late Moshood Kasimawo Olawale Abiola and Babagana Kingibe of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) as president and vice president respectively. Although the elections were globally hailed as the freest and fairest in Nigerian history, the military annulled its results, dashing the hopes raised by this democratic exercise.
“That election remains a pivotal moment in our country’s democratic history. It has become the benchmark against which successes in subsequent elections are measured. Despite its importance, it reminds us of the power of unity, resilience and the collective determination to defend the principles of democracy.
“It is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Nigerian people, who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to democracy and belief in a better future,” the governor added.
He reiterated that the late MKO Abiola is one of the greatest pioneers of Ogun State, just as his courage and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals remain an inspiration to the people.
He recalled that his campaign slogan, “Hope ’93”, was a national awakening rooted in faith and the limitless capacity of Nigerians to confront their challenges and solve the problems of nation-building.
He noted that the celebration signifies the commitment to continue the journey towards a better Nigeria, building on the sacrifices made by MKO Abiola and many others who fought for democracy and paid the ultimate price.
Abiodun said courage and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals serve as a reminder of the power of the people and the importance of upholding the principles of justice, freedom and equality established by our ancestors.
In a lecture titled: ‘June 12: Decisive Moment in Nigeria’s Democratic Development’, guest lecturer, Richard Akinnola, laying out the background of what led to the crisis, chastised the nation’s judiciary for being a tool in the hands of the military government to annul said elections.
He condemned those who have been calling for the return of the military as a result of the difficulties the country is going through.
“Indeed, June 12 is a decisive moment and a milestone in our quest for democracy. That is why we must be very careful. Some people who did not experience what we went through now subtly call for the army. We must say no, we will never call the military again. Whatever challenges we are having, let us fight, let us argue, let us disagree, let us abuse each other, but we should never be tempted to invite the military,” he advised.
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Akinnola, who described the June 12 elections as the best in the nation’s history, noted that the fallout from the annulment led to murders of pro-democracy activists while ushering in mutual distrust among citizens. .
The guest lecturer said for democracy to thrive in the country, Nigerians must keep their leaders on their toes.
He noted that although it is necessary to celebrate the day, people should not forget those who sacrificed their lives for the democracy now enjoyed in the country.
In his goodwill message, Niran Malaolu, a pro-democracy activist and former Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Ogun State, commended the late Abiola for paying the supreme price for the nation to experience democracy.
He recalled that several Nigerians also suffered in the process of the country’s return to democratic rule.
In his welcome address, the Deputy Chief of Staff (DCOS) to the Governor, Toyin Taiwo, said the celebration symbolizes the collective will of Nigerians to elect their leaders in free and fair elections as seen on June 12. 1993, as it happened, demonstrated the power of the people to achieve change.
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