The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the release of 56 inmates from various correctional facilities across the state, as recommended by the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the State's Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, the Governor also approved the life sentence for one person on death row.

According to the statement, one inmate has been approved for pardon, and the Governor signed the release, committal, and pardon orders on June 25, 2024.

The exercise is governed by Section 212 (1) (2) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria's 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“The council took note of the information provided by the correctional authorities, the nature of offence, period of incarceration, age, health and behavioural conduct of the inmates.

“The approval for the release of the inmates is in line with the commitment of Mr. Governor to decongest correctional facilities in Lagos State as part of the Justice Sector Reforms.”