Governor Adeleke Orders Review of Death Sentence for Teen Convicted of Chicken Theft

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has directed an immediate review of the case involving Segun Olowookere, who was sentenced to death by hanging for the theft of a chicken.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke tasked the state’s Attorney General to intervene and ensure that Olowookere is considered for a prerogative of mercy before the year ends.

“I have read about the case. I recognize the separation of powers in our democracy,” the governor said. “In this particular case, I have directed the Commissioner for Justice to initiate processes to grant the prerogative of mercy to the young man. Osun is a land of justice and equity. We must ensure fairness and protect the sanctity of lives.”

Adeleke assured the public that the case has his full attention and emphasized the urgency of the state government’s response.

The directive followed a clemency appeal from the World Institute of Peace. The institute’s Executive Director, Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, revealed that Olowookere was sentenced to death over a decade ago, at the age of 17, for allegedly stealing a fowl and eggs from a poultry farm in Oyan, Osun State.

Omotoyosi highlighted the ethical concerns surrounding the death sentence, particularly given Olowookere’s age at the time and the low value of the stolen items. He noted that Olowookere had pleaded not guilty to the charges and has spent more than ten years in prison.

The institute also relayed the anguish of Olowookere’s parents, who described their son as a promising young man whose potential was cut short by the harsh sentence. The parents have reportedly sold their possessions in a bid to secure his release.

“This punishment far exceeds the nature of the crime, and it is clear that Segun’s case merits a compassionate review,” Omotoyosi stated, calling on Governor Adeleke to act in the spirit of justice and mercy.