JUNE 12: Gov. Makinde grants amnesty to 35 prisoners

As part of activities to mark this year’s Democracy Day, June 12, the governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has granted amnesty to 35 lucky prisoners who will now go home as free men.

According to a statement on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Taiwo Adisa, the governor took the decision pursuant to Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

Taiwo Adisa also added that the governor had approved a low-keyed June 12 celebration while enjoining residents and citizens of the state to take time off to reflect on the ways they could contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s fledgling democracy.

“Today, we have decided to set free 35 prisoners, who have been found worthy of that amnesty,” the governor said.

Read also: PLATEAU: Paramount ruler seeks to be joined in suit challenging Gov Lalong’s attempt to alter Traditional Council

The governor also informed that in subsequent years, the state would collaborate with the family of Chief Moshood Abiola, to celebrate the day in a grand style.

“The government and people of Oyo State today join millions of Nigerians to remember a man who devoted his life to the service of his community and eventually died, seeking to offer more service, Chief MKO Abiola, GCFR.

“We recall 26 years ago, how Nigerians of all walks of life spoke in unison and trooped out to participate in the freest and fairest presidential election Nigeria has ever seen.

“It was a sad day as the election was annulled by the military and the man, Abiola, eventually died in detention. We take solace, however, in the fact that his determination and dogged fight watered the flowers of democracy. It is a good thing that today, the nation is recognising his contributions by setting aside June 12 as a National Day for the celebration of democracy,” Makinde added.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now