A Nigerian man, Segun Olowookere, who has spent the last decade on death row for stealing chickens and eggs, has now been promised a pardon by Ademola Adeleke, the governor of Osun state in southwestern Nigeria. Olowookere was just 17 years old in 2010 when he was arrested along with his accomplice Morakinyo Sunday. The duo was accused of attacking the houses of a police officer and another person with a wooden pistol and a sword. Despite their armed attempt, they only managed to escape with poultry, the BBC reported.
In 2014, Justice Jide Falola of the Osun State High Court sentenced both men to death by hanging after finding them guilty of breaking into the policeman's house and stealing his belongings.
Death sentence sparks outrage
The verdict sparked widespread criticism across Nigeria. Many argued that the punishment was disproportionately harsh for the crime committed.
Following their conviction, Olowookere and Sunday were transferred to Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison in Lagos State, where they have spent the last decade on death row.
In a statement on Tuesday, Governor Adeleke announced his decision to pardon Olowookere, saying: “I have directed the Commissioner for Justice to initiate proceedings to grant the young man the privilege of mercy. “Osun is a land of justice and equity. “We must ensure fairness and protect the sanctity of life,” said the BBC.
The fate of Morakinyo Sunday, who was convicted along with Olowookere, remains unclear as his name was not mentioned in the governor’s statement.
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Olowookere's case has attracted widespread attention over the years as human rights groups, Nigerians and his parents have campaigned for his release. His parents recently appeared on a podcast and tearfully pleaded for a pardon for their only child.
Olowookere is expected to be released in early 2025. Although there have been no executions in Nigeria since 2012, there are still more than 3,400 people on death row in the country.
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