PREROGATIVE OF MERCY: LASG Approves Release Of 46 Inmates,Commutes Death Sentences Of 6 To Life Imprisonment

The Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, has approved the release of 46 inmates from various correctional facilities across the State and commuted the death sentences of six inmates to life imprisonment.

The Governor signed the release and committal orders on the 28th of September 2022 in cognisance of the country’s 62nd Independence Day Celebration.

According to a statement signed by Mr. Moyosore Jubril Onigbanjo (SAN),Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State on the 30th September 2022, the exercise is pursuant to the provisions of Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria (amended).

The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy in reaching its recommendations exercised due diligence in its deliberation of the applications in line with the applicable guidelines.

The Council took note of the information provided by the correctional authorities, the nature of the offence, period of incarceration, age, health and behavioural conduct of the inmates.

“The approval for the release of the inmates is in line with the commitment of Mr. Governor to decongest correctional facilities in Lagos State as part of the Justice Sector Reforms.”,the statement added.