Reported by: Ijeoma .G | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Osun State Government has refuted a recent online report claiming that Governor Ademola Adeleke pardoned a convicted murderer, describing the story as misleading and false. The report, titled “Osun: Adeleke pardons suspected murderer who confessed to slitting friend's throat for money ritual”, was widely circulated on social media.
According to the state, the pardon in question was part of official activities to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, during which Governor Adeleke granted amnesty to 36 convicts serving various sentences at Ilesa and Ile Ife Correctional Centres. The pardons followed a formal recommendation from the Correctional Service, referenced OSCHQ.1C/,VOL.XIV/393, dated 25 September 2025, submitted to the Attorney General for consideration.
The state clarified that none of the 36 inmates granted clemency were serving sentences for murder. One of the individuals, Kehinde Ganiyu, cited in the online story, was convicted of theft and not homicide. Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, described the report as a misrepresentation of facts intended to paint the Governor and the state government in a negative light.
Alimi emphasized that the pardon was executed in accordance with the law and standard procedures, with recommendations from correctional authorities and in line with the Governor’s responsibilities as Chief Security Officer of the state. The Commissioner urged members of the public to disregard the online claim and called for restraint, warning that publication of unverified reports could be subject to legal action.
In his statement, Alimi also challenged the online media outlet, Insight Links, to verify information through the Correctional Centres at Ilesa and Ile Ife before publishing claims that could mislead the public. The statement highlighted the importance of accurate reporting and verification, particularly when dealing with sensitive legal matters.
Observers note that the case underscores ongoing challenges in managing misinformation online, particularly stories that implicate public officials in criminal activities. While the pardon coincided with national celebrations, the state maintains that all procedures were followed, and the convicts were legally eligible for clemency under Nigerian law.
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