A man sentenced to death 14 years ago for stealing chicken has regained his freedom after being granted clemency by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State. Segun Olowookere, who had been held at the Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison, was released on December 24, along with 53 other inmates who received similar pardons.
Olowookere’s ordeal began in 2010 when an Osun State High Court convicted him and another man, Morakinyo Sunday, of conspiracy and theft. Both were handed death sentences, a judgment that shocked many due to the relatively minor nature of the offense. Over the years, human rights activists and legal experts called for their release, arguing that the punishment was excessive.
Governor Adeleke’s decision to grant clemency was part of his administration’s efforts to uphold justice and offer second chances to rehabilitated individuals. Following the finalization of the required documentation, Olowookere walked out of Kirikiri Maximum Prison a free man.
Speaking about the release, Olusola Ajala, Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Communication, confirmed Olowookere’s freedom during a public event. “I can confirm to you all that Segun Olowookere, sentenced to death for stealing, has been released from the Kirikiri Maximum Prison,” he said, emphasizing the governor’s compassion.
