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Governor Adeleke Grants Pardon to 53 Convicts, Including Six Death Row Inmates, in Historic Christmas Gesture

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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.

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Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade

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Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade

 

It was testimonies galore on Tuesday, March 31, the first day of the famous servant of God and founder of the Omega Fire Ministries (OFM) worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman’s power-packed two-day crusade. The event documented impactful moments with the Gospel and miracles, emphasizing the power of faith and the tangible confirmation of God’s Word through signs and wonders. It was equally an atmosphere of miraculous healing, restoration of lives, and the strengthening of faith.

 

At the crusade, which was held at the SKD Sports Stadium in Paynesville City, and themed, “Liberia Outpouring Crusade” witnessed testimonies of impact and miracles with participants experiencing instant healing of various kinds of challenges.

 

Apostle Suleman’s first port of call was Paynesville, the office of Liberian government’s president, Mr. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who received him in an audience with his junior ministers. Apostle Suleman, who also met with the vice-president, Mr. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, was welcomed by the Liberian leader’s office as part of the president’s ongoing engagements with religious leaders aimed at fostering spiritual support for national development.

 

The president expressed profound appreciation to Apostle Suleman for the visit and continued prayers and intercessions by men and women of God on behalf of Liberia, emphasizing his firm belief that sustained spiritual guidance and prayer remain vital to the transformation and progress of the nation.

 

During the visit, Apostle Suleman offered prayers for President Boakai, his cabinet and the Liberian nation, invoking divine alignment, wisdom, and insight in Liberia’s path toward growth and stability. He prayed that the Almighty God would position Liberia for relevance and fulfillment of its national destiny.

 

Apostle Johnson Suleman, an evangelist who knows no bounds of where preaching the gospel comes to a stop, visited Liberia prepared with the message, compelling power of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit, and bringing people to a point of decision where they surrendered their lives to Christ.

 

Aside from being prophetic and timely, OFM sources disclosed that the servant of God’s visit underscores the importance of faith-based partnerships in supporting governance and national renewal efforts.

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Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace

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*Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace

 

The Middle Belt Peace Forum (MBPF) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his profound demonstration of empathy and responsive leadership following his decision to postpone an official engagement in Iperu in order to visit victims of the recent attacks in Jos.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Pastor Bulus Garba, in Jos on Friday, the Forum said the President’s decision to personally identify with grieving communities sends a powerful message of solidarity and reinforces public confidence in the commitment of the Federal Government to the protection of lives and property.

“The Middle Belt Peace Forum warmly commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising compassion over ceremony. At a time of deep sorrow for the people of Plateau State, his decision to visit Jos stands as a mark of true leadership—one that listens, responds, and stands with the people in their moment of pain,” the statement read.

The Forum described the perpetrators of the recent attacks as “cowards who prey on innocent and defenceless citizens,” stressing that such acts of violence are not only inhumane but also a direct assault on the unity and peace of the nation.

“We condemn in the strongest terms the actions of these cowardly attackers whose only aim is to instil fear and destabilise peaceful communities. Their actions must be met with firm and decisive resistance from all arms of the state,” Pastor Garba said.

The MBPF further used the opportunity to salute the courage, gallantry, and sacrifices of the Armed Forces of Nigeria under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, noting that their continued efforts remain central to restoring stability across troubled parts of the country.

According to the Forum, the Armed Forces have demonstrated resilience and professionalism in the face of complex security challenges, often operating under difficult conditions to safeguard communities and defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

“We salute the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices. Their gallantry in confronting criminal elements and reclaiming territories is a testament to their dedication to national service. We recognise that the path to peace is demanding, and we honour those who stand daily in defence of our nation,” the statement added.

The Forum pledged its full support to ongoing military operations and called for strengthened collaboration between security agencies and local communities as a critical factor in achieving lasting peace.

It also urged citizens across the Middle Belt to cooperate with security forces by providing timely information and fostering unity within their communities.

The MBPF, however, expressed concern over the need for greater synergy among security agencies, particularly the role of the Nigeria Police in consolidating gains made by the military.

“We call on the Nigeria Police Force to rise fully to its constitutional responsibility by effectively supporting the Armed Forces in stabilising and securing areas that have been cleared of criminal elements. Holding and policing such territories is essential to preventing a resurgence of violence,” Pastor Garba stated.

The Forum emphasised that sustainable peace requires a coordinated approach in which the military clears and secures areas, while the police maintain law and order to enable displaced communities to return and rebuild their lives.

The MBPF concluded by reiterating its commitment to peacebuilding efforts across the Middle Belt and expressed optimism that with sustained leadership, coordinated security efforts, and active citizen participation, lasting peace can be achieved.

“Together, through unity, vigilance, and collective resolve, we can overcome these challenges and build a safer and more peaceful Middle Belt,” the statement added.

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Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London

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Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London

 

Governor Dauda Lawal has been honored with the Outstanding Governor of the Year award by Triangle Media International Magazine.

 

The award was presented during the magazine’s 10th annual lecture and award ceremony, held on Thursday at the Grand Hall of King’s College, London, United Kingdom.

 

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the awards recognize public and private sector leaders whose leadership positively impacts governance and service delivery.

 

He added that the lecture, themed “Harnessing the Roles of Nigerians in Diaspora for National Development,” brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

 

The statement read in part: “Yesterday, in London, Governor Dauda Lawal received the 2026 Face of Africa Leadership Award for Outstanding Governor of the Year.

 

“The 2026 edition coincides with the 10th anniversary of Triangle International Magazine, which has over the years celebrated notable Africans across diverse fields.

 

“The award recognizes the Zamfara State Government under Governor Lawal’s leadership for achieving remarkable milestones in service delivery since his inauguration on 29 May 2023.

 

“The board of Triangle International noted that, despite inheriting an empty treasury, Governor Dauda Lawal has remained true to the Rescue Agenda’s campaign promise: to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.

 

“The award also reflects the state government’s innovative approach to indirectly curbing insecurity through educational advancement, demonstrated by the declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector.

 

“This includes the state government’s swift payment of the outstanding N3.4 billion for WAEC and NECO examinations, as well as the reconstruction and rehabilitation of schools across all 14 Local Government Areas of Zamfara State.

 

“The international magazine finds these initiatives to be strategic interventions toward long-term efforts to make Zamfara State better.”

 

The colourful event was attended by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Sahara Group’s Group Managing Director, Kola Adesina, among others.

 

Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London

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