A Nigerian man who spent a decade on death row for stealing hens and eggs is set to receive a pardon from the governor of Osun State.
Segun Olowookere was only 17 years old when he and an accomplice, Morakinyo Sunday, were arrested in 2010. The two were accused of breaking into the homes of a police officer and another individual, armed with a wooden gun and a sword. Their haul was limited to poultry, yet in 2014, they were convicted of robbery and sentenced to death by hanging by Justice Jide Falola of the Osun State High Court.
The sentence sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria, with many calling it excessively harsh. The two were subsequently transferred to Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison in Lagos, where they joined thousands of others on death row.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Governor Ademola Adeleke announced plans to pardon Olowookere, citing the importance of justice and the sanctity of life.
“I have directed the Commissioner for Justice to initiate processes to grant prerogative of mercy to the young man. Osun is a land of justice and equity. We must ensure fairness and protection of lives,” the governor posted on social media platform X.
While Olowookere’s release is expected in early 2025, the fate of his accomplice, Morakinyo Sunday, remains uncertain, as his name was not mentioned in the governor’s statement.
Olowookere’s parents, supported by human rights organizations, have long campaigned for his release. Their recent emotional appeal on a podcast helped reignite calls for mercy.
Despite Nigeria halting executions since 2012, the country’s death row population exceeds 3,400 inmates. This case has reignited debates about the fairness of Nigeria’s justice system and the necessity for reform.