Adeleke frees 36 inmates to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has granted amnesty to 36 inmates at the Nigerian Correctional Service centres in Ilesa and Ile-Ife as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

The announcement was made in a statement on Wednesday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

According to the proclamation dated September 24, 2025, Governor Adeleke acted under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), following the advice of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

Twenty-nine of the beneficiaries were freed from the Ilesa facility, while seven were released from Ile-Ife. Most had been convicted of minor offences such as stealing and conspiracy and had already served substantial parts of their sentences.

Adeleke said the gesture reflected his administration’s commitment to justice with compassion.

“This amnesty is not only a gesture of freedom but also a call for rehabilitation, reintegration, and a fresh start for these individuals,” the Governor said.

He added that the government would continue to support the reformation of ex-convicts into productive members of society.