society
Governor Adeleke Grants Pardon to 53 Convicts, Including Six Death Row Inmates, in Historic Christmas Gesture
Governor Adeleke Grants Pardon to 53 Convicts, Including Six Death Row Inmates, in Historic Christmas Gesture
In a bold act of clemency, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has granted a state pardon to 53 convicts, including six individuals previously sentenced to death for capital offenses. The move, announced on Thursday, was in line with the recommendations from the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy and comes as part of the state’s 2024 Christmas celebrations.
Among those pardoned is Ojekunle Timothy, who had his death sentence commuted to 15 years in prison after spending a decade in custody. Timothy’s case highlights the Governor’s commitment to exercising the powers of mercy, as he continues to demonstrate compassion even in the face of serious crimes.
The Governor’s decision to pardon these individuals is categorized into three primary groups: those convicted of simple offenses, those pardoned on health grounds, and those granted release for good behavior. Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, outlined in a statement that a total of 30 inmates convicted of lesser offenses had their sentences completely remitted, while 12 others were granted full pardons due to their conduct.
Notably, four individuals sentenced to death had their sentences commuted, with six others having their death sentences lifted, resulting in their outright release.
Two individuals, Segun Olowokere and Sunday Morakinyo, who had been sentenced to death by an Osun State High Court in 2014 for armed robbery, were also among the beneficiaries of the Governor’s grace. The commutation of their sentences signifies the state’s ongoing commitment to addressing both public safety and justice reform.
Another individual, Ojekunle Timothy, saw his death sentence commuted after spending ten years on death row, serving as a reminder of the Governor’s focus on fair and just measures for those incarcerated.
In a formal letter dated December 24, 2024, Governor Adeleke expressed his decision to exercise his constitutional powers, citing the guidance of the state advisory council. The letter emphasized that the commutation and pardon of these prisoners were part of a broader effort to mark the Christmas season with an act of grace and mercy.
The letter read: “I, Senator Ademola Jackson Adeleke, the Governor of Osun State, in exercise of the power conferred on me… am pleased to extend my grace and mercy unto the said inmates.”
Governor Adeleke’s act of clemency also involved pardoning individuals convicted of simple offenses, with some even having their sentences completely wiped out. Among those granted pardons include: Oluwafemi Fagbemi, Bewaji Sunday, Amehin George, Ayomide Arulogun, and Taiwo Oluwatobi Stephen, among others.
The mass pardons granted by Governor Adeleke come at a time when the Nigerian public has been increasingly focused on prison reforms and the treatment of inmates. Many of the pardoned individuals have shown signs of rehabilitation and good conduct, with some having spent years in custody under harsh conditions. The Governor’s actions are seen as a gesture of goodwill and an effort to provide a fresh start for those who have earned a second chance.
The announcement has also sparked conversations on social media, with some celebrating the Governor’s compassion, while others stress the importance of reforming the justice system to prevent wrongful convictions and excessive sentencing.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with issues related to the justice system, Governor Adeleke’s actions signal a potential shift towards a more compassionate approach to criminal justice in Osun State. While the pardons may provide relief to many of the individuals involved, calls for broader reforms to address the underlying causes of crime, such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality, remain strong.
Governor Adeleke’s latest decision is seen as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing conversation about justice, reform, and the power of mercy.
society
Ajadi Meets Fijabi Family in Ibadan, Calls for PDP Unity Ahead of 2027 Polls
Ajadi Meets Fijabi Family in Ibadan, Calls for PDP Unity Ahead of 2027 Polls
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, held a strategic meeting with prominent Ibadan businessman, Chief Akinade Ismail Fijabi, and his son, Hon. Saheed Akinade Fijabi, at the elder statesman’s residence in Ibadan.
Though details of the closed-door meeting were not disclosed to journalists, Ambassador Ajadi described the engagement as a crucial step toward strengthening internal cohesion within the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking shortly after the meeting, Ajadi stressed the importance of unity among party stakeholders, noting that only a united front would position the PDP for victory in the state.
Our discussion centered on unity, collaboration, and the need to build a formidable structure that will guarantee victory for the PDP in 2027. We must work together as one family if we truly desire progress for Oyo State,” he said.
Ajadi further stressed that consultations with influential stakeholders across the state remain a key component of his political strategy, adding that inclusive dialogue would help consolidate support across party lines and communities.
“This is not about individual ambition; it is about collective responsibility. We are engaging leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots actors to ensure that our party remains strong, focused, and people-oriented,” he added.
Chief Akinade Ismail Fijabi, widely known as the Agba-Akin of Ibadanland, is regarded as a respected figure in business and social circles within the state. His influence, alongside that of his son, Hon. Saheed Akinade Fijabi, underscores the political significance of the meeting.
Hon. Saheed Fijabi, a former two-term member of the House of Representatives representing Ibadan North West/South West under the All Progressives Congress (APC), recently aligned with the PDP and has remained an active player in the state’s political landscape. He notably served as chairman of the Oyo State @50 Committee, inaugurated by Governor Seyi Makinde to oversee the state’s golden jubilee celebrations.
The reports that the political observers believe the meeting may not be unconnected with ongoing realignments and consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race in Oyo State, where key actors are already positioning and building alliances.
While neither Chief Fijabi nor his son spoke publicly on the outcome of the meeting, sources within the PDP suggest that such high-level engagements are part of broader efforts to reconcile interests and strengthen the party’s electoral prospects.
As the countdown to 2027 continues, Ajadi’s sustained consultations with influential stakeholders signal an intensifying political landscape in Oyo State, where unity, strategy, and grassroots connection are expected to play decisive roles.
society
Hadjia Akinosun Morhiyam (Omotayenreti): A Rising Star in Islamic Music
Hadjia Akinosun Morhiyam (Omotayenreti): A Rising Star in Islamic Music
By Taofik Afolabi
In a world where talent meets purpose, Hadjia Akinosun Morhiyam, popularly known as Omotayenreti, stands out as a shining light in the Islamic music scene. Young, vibrant, and exceptionally gifted, she is steadily carving a niche for herself with a voice that resonates deeply with the soul.
Blessed with a naturally sonorous and captivating tone, Omotayenreti possesses a rare ability to connect with her audience through heartfelt lyrics and spiritually uplifting melodies. Her music is not just entertainment—it is a message of faith, hope, and devotion, delivered with sincerity and grace.
Despite her youth, she demonstrates remarkable artistry, discipline, and passion that set her apart from many of her peers. Each performance reflects her deep understanding of Islamic values, as she uses her talent as a tool to inspire, educate, and uplift listeners across all walks of life.
Omotayenreti is undoubtedly a star in the making, with all the qualities needed to rise to the top of the Islamic music world. Her dedication, unique sound, and powerful voice position her as one of the most promising female Islamic singers of her generation.
As she continues to grow and evolve, there is no doubt that Hadjia Akinosun Morhiyam will leave an indelible mark on the industry—touching hearts, spreading positivity, and becoming a global ambassador for Islamic music.
Watch out for Omotayenreti, the future is bright, and her voice is just getting started.
society
PDP Guber Aspirant, Ajadi Hails Olubadan, CCII Over Successful Completion Of Ibadan Cultural Festival
PDP Guber Aspirant, Ajadi Hails Olubadan, CCII Over Successful Completion Of Ibadan Cultural Festival
A leading Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has commended the peaceful conduct and the success of this year’s edition of Ibadan Cultural Festival, describing it as a pride to all Ibadan Indigenes both at home and abroad.
Ibadan Cultural Week is an annual event and the 2026 edition was held at.the Lekan Salami Stadium Adamasingba Ibadan on Saturday.
The week celebrates the Ibadan’s rich heritage, unity, and pride, which usually features vibrant cultural displays, masquerades, and performances.
Ajadi, in a statement he personally signed on Sunday, lauded the Ibadan Cultural Festival, saying it is best of its kind not only in Ibadanland but in the entire Yoruba nation.
Ajadi said that the well conducted 2026 edition of Ibadan Week shows that the indigenes have deep love for their place of birth.
He said that Ibadan’s legacy of good culture, ambience environment and its status as the political Capital of the South West is a pride to all Indigenes.
He stated that Ibadan’s contribution to the national development and progress cannot be underestimated being the Capital of the old Western Region, which made its political status attracted many firsts to the city, which earn the city of the warriors ‘The Pace Setter.’
According to him, these include the first sky scrapper, Cocoa House, the Western Nigerian Television Services now Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), the Liberty Stadium, now Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Premier University, University of Ibadan and many others.
He therefore congratulated the indigenes especially the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu (Ladoja Arusa 1), saying his tenure will witness many more developments for the ancient city.
He called on Ibadan descendants to stand firm and ensure that the city continues to witness monumental developments.
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