Osun Governor Orders Probe into Death Sentence Over Alleged Fowl Theft
Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered an investigation into the case of Segun Olowookere, sentenced to death for allegedly stealing fowls and eggs in 2010. He directed the Attorney-General to start the process to secure Segun’s release before the end of the year.
The case resurfaced after a podcast interview showed Segun’s parents pleading for his pardon. They begged the governor to show mercy and release their only child. “We only have one son. Please help us,” they said tearfully.
Governor Adeleke promised to act. “I have reviewed the case and instructed the Commissioner for Justice to begin clemency procedures immediately,” he stated.
Segun was 17 years old when police arrested him and another young man, Morakinyo Sunday. In 2014, the court sentenced both to death for robbery, along with life imprisonment for conspiracy and three years for theft. Justice Jide Falola recommended that the death sentence be reduced to 10 years due to their age.
The case began in 2010 when police accused Segun and Morakinyo of breaking into Mr. Balogun Tope’s home to steal. The prosecution presented six witnesses and alleged the accused confessed.
Segun denied the charges. His parents also insisted he was innocent. Segun’s father recounted how police arrested him during a raid. “They came back in the evening and took my son. The complainant is even a relative,” he said.
Segun has spent years on death row at Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison in Lagos. His parents, human rights groups, and activists have campaigned for his release, calling the sentence harsh for such a crime.
Nigeria hasn’t executed anyone since 2012, but over 3,400 people remain on death row. Governor Adeleke’s intervention offers hope for Segun and his family. Nigerians now await the outcome of this investigation.
