Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has criticized Nigeria’s judicial system, describing it as plagued by “harsh inequalities.” His remarks follow the controversial sentencing of Segun Olowookere, who was convicted of theft and sentenced to death by hanging for stealing a fowl in Osun State.
Olowookere, 17 at the time of the crime, was arrested alongside an accomplice, Morakinyo Sunday, in 2010 for allegedly breaking into the homes of a police officer and another individual. After a prolonged legal battle, Justice Jide Falola of the Osun State High Court convicted both men of burglary and theft in 2014, sentencing them to death.
The ruling has sparked widespread public outrage, prompting Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to order a review of the case. The governor instructed the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to explore options for a possible prerogative of mercy.
In a statement, Governor Adeleke assured the public of his commitment to justice. “Osun is a land of justice and equity, and we must ensure fairness and protect the sanctity of lives. I assure the public that this matter is receiving my direct attention with the urgency it deserves,” he said.
Reacting on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Peter Obi commended Governor Adeleke’s actions and decried the glaring disparities in Nigeria’s justice system.
“I commend Governor Ademola Adeleke for stepping in to prevent the inhumane punishment of death by hanging for the theft of a fowl and eggs—an offence for which the individual has already served 14 years in prison,” Obi wrote.
“That sentence alone far exceeds the demands of justice, even if the crime warranted consideration in the first place.
“This case highlights the harsh inequalities in Nigeria’s legal system. Those who embezzle billions of public funds are often celebrated, even when caught, while ordinary citizens face disproportionate punishments. At the same time, individuals pursuing honest and legitimate businesses are burdened with oppressive regulations and treated with suspicion, as though success through integrity is a crime.”
In a recent interview on the Talk To B Show, hosted by actress Abiola Adebayo, Olowookere’s parents recounted the events leading to their son’s conviction. They detailed the hardships endured over the years and their hopes for justice after more than a decade of legal struggles.
The case continues to draw national attention, with many calling for reforms to ensure fairness and proportionality in Nigeria’s justice system.
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