Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo has approved the release of 16 inmates serving different jail terms from various correctional facilities in the state.

The governor also committed the sentences of 17 other inmates serving various terms of imprisonment in the custodial centres. 

This was contained in statement by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo, Charles Titiloye, said the gesture was to commemorate Nigeria’s 62nd Independence anniversary. 

“This is in accordance with the power conferred on the Governor by paragraphs (a) (c) and (d) of Subsection (1) of Section 212, of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, (as amended),” Mr Titiloye said. 

Mr Titiloye explained further that the approval for the release of the inmates was based on the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

He added that the inmates received the ‘Grace and Mercy of the Governor’ based on their good conduct. 

According to him, the governor urged the freed inmates to be of good conduct and see their release as another opportunity to live a better life devoid of crime. 

“The Governor called on the citizens of the state not to discriminate against them and integrate them into their various communities,” Mr Titiloye said.