In Summary
- C, arrested at 17 for stealing poultry, spent a decade on death row.
- The harsh sentence sparked widespread outcry in Nigeria.
- Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has initiated a pardon process, with Olowookere expected to be freed in early 2025.
A Decade-Long Ordeal for Teenage Theft
Segun Olowookere, a Nigerian man who has spent the past 10 years on death row for stealing hens and eggs, is set to regain his freedom after a pardon was promised by the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke.
Olowookere’s story began in 2010 when, at just 17 years old, he and his accomplice, Morakinyo Sunday, were arrested after allegedly breaking into the homes of a police officer and another individual armed with a wooden gun and a sword. Despite the dramatic allegations, their loot consisted only of poultry.
Harsh Sentencing Sparks Outrage
In 2014, Justice Jide Falola of the Osun State High Court sentenced both young men to death by hanging for their crime, which involved forced entry and theft.
The ruling provoked widespread outrage across Nigeria, with many criticizing the severity of the punishment for such a minor theft. Advocacy groups, human rights organizations, and Olowookere’s family rallied for his release, deeming the sentence disproportionate and unjust.
Years on Death Row at Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison
Olowookere and Sunday were transferred to Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison in Lagos, notorious for its harsh conditions, where they remained on death row.
Olowookere’s parents, devastated by their son’s plight, recently made an emotional appeal for his release during a podcast interview, drawing renewed public attention to his case.
Governor Adeleke Steps In
In a statement released on Tuesday, Governor Ademola Adeleke pledged to grant Olowookere a pardon, emphasizing the importance of protecting the sanctity of life.
“I have directed the Commissioner for Justice to initiate processes to grant prerogative of mercy to the young man. Osun is a land of justice and equity. We must ensure fairness and protection of the sanctity of lives,” Adeleke shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Olowookere is expected to be freed in early 2025, marking the end of his decade-long ordeal. However, the fate of his accomplice, Morakinyo Sunday, remains unclear as he was not mentioned in the governor’s statement.
Nigeria’s Stance on Capital Punishment
While Nigeria has not carried out an execution since 2012, over 3,400 individuals remain on death row. Cases like Olowookere’s continue to fuel debates on the fairness of the judicial system and the relevance of capital punishment for non-violent offenses.
Olowookere’s pending release offers a glimmer of hope to other prisoners and highlights the power of advocacy and public pressure in seeking justice for the underprivileged.
