Segun Olowookere, a resident of Osun State, Nigeria, has been released from prison after being sentenced to death hanging for stealing a chicken in 2010. His case, which has sparked widespread public debate about the fairness of the Nigerian justice system, took a dramatic turn on December 26, when Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, granted him a pardon.
Olowookere’s journey from death row to freedom began over a decade ago, when he was arrested for the theft of a chicken. While the crime was minor and involved no violence, the court sentenced him to death hanging, a decision that many felt was an extreme and disproportionate punishment. The severity of the sentence ignited public outcry, with many questioning the fairness of such a harsh penalty for a relatively petty offense.
The case gained renewed attention after a viral interview featuring Nigerian actress Biola Adebayo. In the video, posted on social media, Adebayo was seen standing outside the Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison, where Olowookere had been held. In the video, she expressed her gratitude to the Osun State Governor for intervening in the case and granting Olowookere a pardon. Adebayo’s emotional support for Olowookere drew significant attention to the case, further fueling public demand for justice.
Responding to the outcry, Governor Ademola Adeleke acted swiftly, granting Olowookere a pardon just in time for Christmas. The governor’s decision was widely praised as a step towards a more compassionate and fair legal system. Olowookere’s release on December 26 marked the end of a long and difficult chapter in his life, offering him a second chance at freedom.
Olowookere’s case serves as a poignant reminder of the need for reform in Nigeria’s justice system. It highlights the importance of proportionality in sentencing and the power of public advocacy in influencing change. With his pardon, Olowookere is free, and his story has sparked broader conversations about justice, mercy, and the role of the public in seeking fairness for all.