Emmanuel Ochayi
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has pardoned Segun Olowookere, famously known as the “death-for-fowl” convict, alongside 51 others. Olowookere’s case, which drew national attention, involved his conviction at age 17 for robbery and stealing a fowl. His sentence to death sparked widespread debate about justice and proportionality in Nigeria’s legal system.
The governor’s decision follows weeks of public outcry and advocacy efforts to revisit the circumstances of the conviction.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHow the “Death for Stealing Fowl” Case Began
Olowookere was arrested in November 2010 and convicted by an Osun State High Court in 2014. The court found him guilty of conspiracy to commit armed robbery, robbery, and stealing. Although the theft of the fowl seemed minor, the legal classification of the crime under armed robbery laws resulted in a death sentence.
Public interest in the case reignited recently after Olowookere’s mother appeared on a popular podcast pleading for clemency for her son. Her emotional appeal went viral on social media, leading to a public campaign for justice reform in similar cases.
Governor Adeleke’s Response to Public Outcry
Reacting to the public outcry, Governor Adeleke directed the state attorney general to investigate the case. Following a review, the governor announced Olowookere’s pardon, alongside clemency for 51 other inmates.
“In line with the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, I have exercised my constitutional powers to pardon these individuals,” Adeleke said in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.
The governor emphasised the importance of justice tempered with mercy, particularly for cases that involve young offenders or disproportionate sentencing.
READ ALSO: Death For Stealing Fowl: Gov. Adeleke Orders Pardon For Victim After 14 Years In Jail
Who Else Benefited From the Governor’s Pardon?
Among those granted clemency were individuals convicted of various offences, including capital crimes. According to the governor’s statement, Sunday Morakinyo, Tunde Olapade, and Demola Odeyemi also received outright pardons.
The governor’s decision was based on recommendations from the State Advisory Council, which assessed the cases for signs of rehabilitation, good conduct, and mitigating factors.
Implications of the “Death for Stealing Fowl” Case
Olowookere’s case has raised critical questions about Nigeria’s legal framework. Critics argue that laws categorising minor thefts under armed robbery statutes disproportionately penalise offenders.
Civil rights groups have called for reforms to ensure fairer sentencing. “Cases like this highlight the urgent need for a justice system that considers the context and severity of crimes,” said human rights lawyer Kola Adeyemi.
A Turning Point for Justice in Osun State?
Governor Adeleke’s intervention marks a significant moment in the debate over justice reform in Nigeria. While many celebrate Olowookere’s release, advocacy groups are pushing for broader reforms to prevent similar cases.
“This is not just about one man. It’s about creating a legal system that upholds fairness,” said Adeyemi.
As Olowookere walks free, his story remains a powerful reminder of the human cost of legal rigidity, sparking hope for a more equitable justice system in the future.
