The outgoing Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has granted a pardon to 10 inmates who have less than a year remaining on their sentences in various correctional facilities across the state. This exercise of the governor’s prerogative of mercy was announced by Hon. Justice P.O. Isibor (Rtd), Chairman of the Edo State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
In a statement, Justice Isibor explained that, as the governor’s term concludes, the Council received a request from the Benin Correctional Service dated November 5, 2024.
This letter from the facility’s Controller sought clemency for inmates nearing the end of their terms. The Council convened to review the applications and, after careful consideration, forwarded recommendations to the governor, who approved the pardons.
The pardoned individuals include Igwe Kelechukwu, Esazobor Ohioze, Gift Osaretun, Takyi Rockson, Dikuar Friday, Ossai Glory, Augustine Sunday, Daulagha Ebifagha Godluck, James Paul, and Anas Isah.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Transition Committee in Edo State has called on the incoming administration, led by Governor-elect Senator Monday Okpebholo, to launch an inquiry into the state’s finances under Obaseki’s leadership.
The committee claims there has been a lack of transparency, with no audited financial statements available—either published or unpublished—during the outgoing administration’s tenure.
The 25-member committee, led by former Deputy Governor Dr. Pius Odubu, emphasized the need for the new administration to conduct a full review of all Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) involving the management of the Central Hospital and the Stella Obasanjo Hospital.
The committee expressed concerns over debts, both local and foreign, incurred during Obaseki’s time in office, urging the governor-elect to ensure a thorough audit and accountability process.
The transition committee highlighted that even the state procurement agency, in a report provided to the transition team, raised issues regarding Obaseki’s government, suggesting irregularities that merit closer examination by the incoming administration.
