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Nigerians have been shocked when stories surfaced of Segun Olowookere, an solely baby, being sentenced to loss of life in Osun State for allegedly stealing a fowl. The incident has drawn widespread criticism, with many questioning the severity of the punishment.
The case dates again to 2010 when Olowookere, then 17, and one other suspect, Sunday Morakinyo, have been arrested in Oyan, Odo-Otin Native Authorities Space. They have been accused of robbing a police officer and others of things together with fowls, eggs, and cell phones.
In 2014, Justice Jide Falola of the Osun State Excessive Courtroom convicted each males on prices of conspiracy to commit armed theft, theft, and stealing. Olowookere was sentenced to loss of life for armed theft, life imprisonment for theft, and three years for stealing. Regardless of his conviction, the decide beneficial that the state governor take into account decreasing the loss of life sentence because of Olowookere’s age.
Olowookere’s Plea of Innocence
Talking from loss of life row, Olowookere maintained his innocence, claiming he was wrongfully implicated by minors who have been additionally arrested however later launched. He recounted enduring extreme police torture and alleged that his household couldn’t pay the N30,000 bail demanded by officers, resulting in his extended detention.
In response to Olowookere, the stolen gadgets have been taken from a poultry farm owned by his uncle, who initially sought to withdraw the case however later testified in opposition to him in court docket. He additionally denied making any confessional assertion, a declare contradicted throughout his trial.
Governor Adeleke Guarantees Motion
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has responded to public outcry, directing the Legal professional Normal to evaluation the case and provoke a course of for granting Olowookere a pardon. “Osun is a land of justice and fairness. I guarantee the general public that this matter is receiving my direct consideration,” the governor acknowledged by way of his social media account.
Criticism of Judicial Intervention
Former Oyo State Legal professional Normal Mutalubi Adebayo urged warning, warning in opposition to undermining judicial processes. He highlighted the danger of exposing judges to undue strain, probably compromising their security and the justice system’s integrity.
A Second Probability
Olowookere, now an aspiring medical skilled, expressed hope for freedom and the prospect to show his innocence. Regardless of monetary constraints, he has labored beneath medical practitioners at his custodial heart, hoping to someday research medication.
The case continues to stir debate on Nigeria’s justice system, highlighting the complexities of balancing justice, fairness, and the sanctity of life.
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