The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has stepped in to address a controversial case involving a young man sentenced to death by hanging for stealing a fowl. The case, which has sparked public outrage, concerns 17-year-old Segun Olowookere, an indigene of Osun State, who was convicted for robbing a poultry farm in Oyan, located in Odo-Otin Local Government Area.


Segun, the only son of his parents, was sentenced by an Osun State High Court sitting in Ikirun and is currently detained in Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison. According to reports, the young man was convicted for stealing a fowl and some eggs, a crime that resulted in a harsh penalty: death by hanging.


The parents of the teenager, devastated by the sentence, have made passionate appeals to Governor Adeleke and other state officials, including the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, to intervene. They have begged for clemency, urging the governor to grant their son amnesty and a second chance at life.


Responding to these appeals and widespread public concern, Governor Adeleke, through a statement issued on Tuesday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, announced immediate action. The governor expressed his shock and dismay upon learning about the case and has directed the Attorney General of Osun State to conduct a thorough investigation. He also instructed the Attorney General to initiate proceedings for the prerogative of mercy for Segun Olowookere before the end of the year.


In a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Governor Adeleke emphasized his commitment to justice and fairness in Osun State. “I have received the report of a case of a young man reportedly sentenced to death by hanging in Osun State for stealing a fowl. Consequently, I have directed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to commence a full investigation into the matter and initiate processes to grant prerogative of mercy to the young man,” he wrote.


The governor underscored the values of justice and equity in Osun State, adding, “Osun is a land of justice and equity, and we must ensure fairness and the protection of the sanctity of lives. I assure members of the public that this matter is receiving my direct attention with a great sense of urgency.”


Governor Adeleke’s intervention has been welcomed as a step towards rectifying a perceived miscarriage of justice. Many observers view the case as a stark reminder of the need for reforms in the justice system, particularly concerning the disproportionate sentencing of minors and individuals involved in minor thefts.


The state government has assured the public that every effort will be made to ensure justice is served, while also extending compassion and clemency to those who deserve it. Governor Adeleke’s swift action reflects his administration's dedication to justice, fairness, and the humane treatment of all citizens in Osun State.