Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke pardons Segun Olowookere, sentenced to death in 2014 for alleged chicken theft. The case gained public attention after allegations of wrongful conviction and police misconduct. Adeleke's mercy extended to 53 convicts, sparking discussions on justice reform and the fairness of Nigeria’s judicial system.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has granted a pardon to Segun Olowookere, sentenced to death in 2014 for stealing a chicken and eggs in 2010. The controversial case drew public attention after Olowookere’s parents alleged their son’s innocence in a viral interview.
Olowookere and his co-defendant, Sunday Morakinyo, were originally arrested for alleged armed robbery at a poultry farm, where authorities claimed to have recovered weapons. They were convicted and sentenced to death under Osun's strict laws for robbery.
The story resurfaced after Olowookere’s parents revealed in an interview that a police officer had demanded a bribe for their son's release, which they could not fully pay. Public outrage led Adeleke to direct the Attorney-General to investigate the matter thoroughly.
On December 26, Governor Adeleke exercised his prerogative of mercy, granting freedom to Olowookere and Morakinyo among 53 other inmates. Six other inmates on death row were also released, while 30 had their sentences reduced.
Adeleke’s decision has sparked discussions about justice reform and the use of the death penalty for petty offenses. The governor’s office emphasized a commitment to equity and second chances for convicts deserving of rehabilitation.
