New Year: Gov.Abiodun pardons 71 Inmates

In the exercise of the prerogative of mercy, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has granted clemency to 71 inmates in the state.

The Governor made this known in his 2026 New Year broadcast on Thursday.

The clemency included the early release of 46 inmates who had served substantial portions of their short-term sentences, the release of 19 capital offenders on compassionate grounds due to age, infirmity, or prolonged incarceration, and the commutation of death sentences to life imprisonment for six inmates.

The Governor emphasized rehabilitation and reintegration, stressing the importance of giving deserving individuals a second chance to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.

According to him, the New Year presents another opportunity to strengthen collective resolve, deepen collaboration between government and citizens, and advance further along the path of sustainable development.

“Our shared experience has reaffirmed a simple but powerful truth: when citizens and government work together in trust and shared responsibility, progress is inevitable,” Abiodun said.

Reiterating his administration’s vision, the Governor added: “Our vision remains focused on building a prosperous and inclusive Ogun State driven by economic diversification, strategic infrastructure, and human capital development. Through deliberate reforms, targeted investments, and forward-looking policies, we are building an economy that creates opportunities for all and protects the most vulnerable."

“Guided by our Building Our Future Together mantra and implemented through our ISEYA Development Agenda, our administration continues to deliver people-focused governance with discipline, transparency, and compassion.”

On security, the Governor said public safety and investor confidence were strengthened through the recruitment and equipping of 6,700 security personnel across the state.

He reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and citizens’ participation in the 2026 budget planning process, assuring residents that his administration remains steadfast in delivering sustainable development and shared prosperity.