Nigerian gov orders investigation, clemency for man sentenced to death for stealing fowl

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has directed an immediate investigation into the case of a young man reportedly sentenced to death by hanging for stealing a fowl.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 17, by the Governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke expressed concern over the judgment and ordered the Attorney General to step in.

The Governor instructed the Attorney General to thoroughly review the case and ensure the young man is considered for the prerogative of mercy. Adeleke emphasized that the process should be expedited so that clemency is granted before the end of the year.

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The statement reads, ‘’ I have received the report of a case of a young man reportedly sentenced to death by hanging in Osun State for stealing a fowl. Consequently, I have directed the Attorney- General and Commissioner for Justice, Osun State to commence full investigation into the matter and initiate processes to grant prerogative of mercy to the young man.

Osun is a land of justice and equity and must ensure fairness and protection of the sanctity of lives. I assure members of the public that this matter is receiving my direct attention with every sense of urgency also attached to our response to the matter.”the statement read

The distraught parents of the young man had an interview with actress Biola Adebayo where they shared the sad story of how their only son who was a medical student was “falsely” accused of stealing fowl and then subsequently sentenced to de@th by hanging for same crime.