Sanwo-Olu releases 52 inmates, commutes 6 death sentences to life

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has approved the release of 52 inmates from various correctional centers across the state and commuted six death sentences to life imprisonment.

The state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN) revealed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday.

Pedro said the release order was issued on Dec. 31, 2024.

He explained that the release of the inmates was based on the recommendations of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

He said the council considered various factors, including the nature of the offence, period of incarceration, age, health condition and behavioural conduct before making its recommendations.

“While 35 inmates will be released immediately, 17 others will be released after serving an additional term of three to six months.

“The released inmates are hereby tasked to exhibit good behaviour, desist from any form of crime and reintegrate into society,” he said.

Pedro said Sanwo-Olu’s move was geared toward promoting justice sector reforms and decongesting correctional facilities in the state.

He, however, said the release order was to be complied with after completion of the administrative processes by the correctional facilities.