Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has expressed concern over the reported death sentence of a young man for stealing a fowl, swiftly ordering a full investigation and initiate processes to grant the young man a prerogative of mercy.
In a statement, Adeleke directed the state’s attorney general and commissioner for justice to launch a full investigation and initiate processes to grant the young man a prerogative of mercy.
“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,” Adeleke wrote.
“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.”, the governor said.
The case has sparked widespread outrage, with many Nigerians questioning the severity of the punishment for what is considered a relatively minor offense. The young man was arrested in 2010 and sentenced to death by hanging in 2014.
Adeleke’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, confirmed that the governor has ordered immediate investigation and pardoning action.
“The governor has directed the Attorney General to intervene in the matter and ensure the young man is listed for prerogative of mercy,” Rasheed said.
The incident has raised concerns about the justice system in Nigeria, with many calling for reforms to address disproportionate punishments.
This is especially, in a country where corrupt individuals who stole billions of naira belonging to the public are given a slap in the wrist by the judiciary.
