Pardon youngster on death row – World Institute of Peace to Osun Governor

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

As the case of Segun Olowookere, whom the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke directed an official investigation into continues to generate public debate, the World Institute of Peace has joined its voice in appealing for clemency.

It would be recalled that Olowookere was sentenced to death by hanging when he was seventeen years for the theft of a fowl and eggs.

Olowookere has reportedly been on death row for a decade until his parents sought the intervention of well meaning Nigerians and the Osun State Government.

According to the statement signed by the World Institute of Peace executive director, Lamina Kamiludeen Omotoyosi, the appeal was based on humanitarian concern

The statement partly reads: “I write to you, to bring to your attention, a matter of profound humanitarian concern regarding a young man named Segun Olowookere, who has been sentenced to death for an alleged crime at the tender age of 17.

“Two. Segun’s conviction stems from an incident involving the allegation of theft of a fowl and eggs from a poultry farm in Oyan, Osun State since over ten years ago.

“Three. The gravity of a death sentence for such an offence raises significant ethical questions, particularly when considering the young age at which Segun was convicted and the minimal value of the items involved. However, no justification for any crime but Segun actually pleaded not guilty to this crime.

“Four. His parents, Folashade and Olanrewaju Olowookere, have been vocal in their pleas for clemency, expressing their devastation over the loss of their only son to the confines of prison for over a decade. Oh my God. Only son of a family.

“Five. As you are aware, the principles of justice and mercy are foundational to a progressive society. The parents have made heartfelt appeals, emphasizing that Segun is a brilliant young man with a promising future. They have endured immense suffering, selling their properties in an attempt to secure his release, and they continue to hope for a second chance for their son. The weight of the punishment far exceeds the nature of the crime, and it is clear that Segun’s case merits a compassionate review. Please, Mr. Governor.”