The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, has approved the release of 49 inmates from various correctional facilities across the state.

According to a Thursday statement, Sanwo-Olu signed the Release Order on May 26, 2023.

The statement said the move was part of activities to usher in the second term of the governor in office.

The exercise is pursuant to the provisions of Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

“The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy in reaching its recommendations exercised due diligence in its deliberation of the applications in line with the applicable guidelines, the information provided by the correctional authorities, the nature of the offence, period of incarceration, age, health and also the behavioural conduct of the inmates,” the statement said.

“The approval for the release of the inmates is also in line with the commitment of Mr Governor to decongest correctional facilities in Lagos State as part of the justice sector reform,” it added.