Pardoned Osun youths on death row for stealing chicken leave prison four years after incarceration
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Paperwork is expected to be finalised on December 30 on the release of death row convicts for stealing chicken, Segun Olowookere and Sunday Morakinyo, who were pardoned last Thursday by Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke.
This expected to enable allow them return to Okuku their hometown on Monday or Tuesday.
One of the activists championing Olowookere’s release since sentencing, Monsurat Ajoke, disclosed to Sunday Tribune that he would become a free man the moment the documents for his release are finalised.
She expressed appreciation to Adeleke for the clemency.
Ajoke, who runs an eponymous charity, explained that the final touches to the documents for Olowookere’s release from Kirikiri Maximum Prison, Lagos could not be done during their last visit on Friday but expressed optimism for the completion on Monday.
She disclosed that Olowookere is currently studying nursing at a correctional centre in Abeokuta, and expressed delight that despite the challenges, “Segun has demonstrated exceptional resilience and determination.”
Ajoke added: “Recently, he was commended for his exemplary behaviour and good conduct by the correctional centre authorities.
“Segun has taken the initiative to pursue educational opportunities while incarcerated. He has chosen to study nursing, driven by a desire to acquire skills that will enable him to make a positive impact on society upon his release.
“Segun’s story is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for growth, redemption, and transformation. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that everyone deserves a second chance.”
Olowookere and Morakinyo were sentenced to death by an Osun State High Court on 17 December 2014 for conspiracy to commit armed robbery, armed robbery, and stealing – four years after they were convicted in November 2010.
The matter recently went viral on social media after his mother called on Nigerians to intervene.
Following a public outcry, Adeleke pardoned Olowookere, Morakinyo, and 51 other prison inmates on December 26.
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