A 17-year-old Nigerian man, Segun Olowookere, has been sentenced to death by hanging for stealing a fowl in Osun State.
This information was shared in a statement posted on Wednesday via the official X account of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke.
Olowookere, along with his accomplice Morakinyo Sunday, was sentenced in 2014. Justice Jide Falola ruling convict them on three counts: to death for conspiracy; life sentence for robbery, and three years imprisonment for stealing.
The case gained significant attention after a video podcast featuring Segun’s parents went viral. In the video, his parents were seen in tears, pleading with Governor Adeleke to pardon their only child, who has spent ten years in prison.
In response to the outcry, Governor Adeleke announced that he had ordered an investigation into the case and assured the public that the process to grant a pardon to the young man had already begun.
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“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,” Adeleke said.
He continued, “Consequently, I have directed the attorney general and commissioner for justice, Osun state, to commence full investigation into the matter and initiate processes to grant prerogative of mercy to the young man.”
Governor Adeleke also emphasized the importance of fairness and justice, stating, “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.”
