Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has expressed concern over a reported death sentence of a young man in the state for stealing a fowl.
In a statement posted on X.com on Tuesday, governor Adeleke has directed the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to launch a full investigation into the case and initiate processes of granting the young man, a prerogative of mercy.
Adeleke wrote: “I have received the report of a case of a young man reportedly sentenced to death by hanging in Osun State for stealing a fowl.
“Consequently, I have directed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Osun State, to commence a full investigation into the matter and initiate processes to grant prerogative of mercy to the young man.
“Osun is a land of justice and equity and must ensure fairness and protection of the sanctity of lives. I assure members of the public that this matter is receiving my direct attention with every sense of urgency also attached to our response to the matter.”
The case, which has attracted widespread attention, reportedly involved a young man who was reportedly arrested in 2010 and sentenced to death by hanging in 2014 after being convicted of stealing a fowl.
Having spent 14 years behind bars since 2010, the incident has raised questions about the severity of the punishment for what many consider a relatively minor offence.