Governor Adeleke seeks pardon for Segun Olowookere, sentenced to death for stealing fowl

• Segun Olowookere was arrested at 17 for allegedly stealing a chicken and eggs, leading to a decade-long legal battle
• Despite being sentenced to death, Segun remained determined to pursue a medical career while incarcerated
• Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke, intervened in the case, ordering an investigation and considering a pardon for Segun

The quest for justice has reached a hopeful turning point for Segun Olowookere, a young man sentenced to death for allegedly stealing a fowl and eggs in Osun State, as Governor Ademola Adeleke plans to grant him a pardon.

In a recent interview on the Talk To B show, hosted by Nollywood actress Abiola Adebayo, Olowookere Olarenwaju and his wife, Folashade, shared the evocative story about their son Segun, who has faced significant hardships leading to his conviction. 

They recounted that their struggles began back in 2008 when a cleric from Kwara State warned them about the challenges their son would encounter in the future. This warning marked the beginning of a difficult journey for the family.

Segun Olowookere was arrested in 2010 for allegedly stealing a fowl and eggs in Osun State and has been at the centre of a decade-long legal battle. 

In 2010, Segun's life took a drastic turn when police arrived at his father's shop, triggering a chaotic scene. Though another boy identified Segun as innocent, he chose not to run, insisting on his innocence.

However, after being taken to the police station, Segun’s father was asked to pay N30,000 for his release—a demand that seemed unfair given the circumstances. While most of the other accused boys were released after six months, Segun was treated as an adult and sentenced to death following testimony from a relative of his father who accused him of being the leader of the armed thieves. 

Despite the harsh reality of prison life, Segun remained determined to pursue a medical career, funding his education while incarcerated. 

Osun State Government's intervention 

Following the interview, Segun Olowookere’s story caught the attention of the Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke, who intervened by ordering an investigation into the case and considering a pardon for Segun. 

Governor Adeleke emphasised the need for justice and fairness in the state, assuring the public that the matter is being treated urgently. 

He posted: “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, Osun State to commence full investigation into the matter and initiate processes to grant prerogative of mercy to the young man.

“Osun is a land of justice and equity and must ensure fairness and protection of the sanctity of lives. I assure members of the public that this matter is receiving my direct attention with every sense of urgency also attached to our response to the matter.”

Justice Falola's defence

Hon. Justice Falola, the presiding judge over Segun’s case, defended his death sentence ruling for armed robbery, clarifying that it was not a simple theft. 

His statement addressed public backlash and misinformation. Following his forced early retirement due to an investigation revealing misconduct related to a garnishee order against Polaris Bank, the committee found Falola had improperly entertained a case without jurisdiction, leading to Governor Ademola Adeleke's recommendation for retirement in 2023.

"They were not just stealing fowls," Falola stated, emphasising the gang was armed and caused significant harm. He reiterated that the law imposes severe penalties for crimes involving firearms, rejecting claims that the case was mere petty theft. "There is no sentiment in law," he asserted. 

Nigerians react to Segun Olowookere’s case

Nigerians were deeply moved by Segun Olowookere's heart-wrenching story, and they vehemently condemned the injustice meted out to him, while some debated otherwise. 

See further reactions:

@Comeback_snarky commented:” What punishment do they give people stealing billions? 

Higher government appointments”

@Uncle_olu commented: “Imagine a country where someone spent 14 years in jail and sentenced to death by hanging because he stole fowl. FOWL.. but someone who stole over N80b was just given N500m fine..”

@Annabellafa5hn commented: “Then, the one who stole, kidnapped and collect ransom, was released to go bury him mama, and case closed. Hahaha hah” 

@kobo_wyse commented: “Someone carried the instrument with which he could as well kill anyone trying to stop him in the act of stealing. He was charged for Armed Robbery not stealing. That the item he came to steal is a fowl is another thing. A case of more than 2 people carry gun come steal fowl.”

@adesalam895260 commented: “This is a case of armed robbery, not stealing. No court, no matter how corrupt, will sentence anyone to death for stealing. If you use weapon, even if it is a spoon to intimidate your victim before stealing from him, it is armed robbery. If you are convicted, you're going to die.”

@olatuna commented: “The focus here should be on whether he was involved in the robbery and whether the perpetrators were genuinely armed, especially considering that the owner of the fowl is a police officer. We all know what they are capable of.”

@Fascostarb01 commented: “I de sure say God don forget say Nigeria de exist aswear cuz wtf 14yrs nd hanging cuz of fowl and we have leaders who stole trillions and de do nothing to them☹️” 

@PastorDfash commented: “The particular Judge that presided over the case should be sentenced to death by stoning for his wickedness against humanity.”

@Mayor_ofph commented: “This is just so hilarious 😂 

Wetin dem go con do Emefiele?”

@mrajakiaye commented: “■ Man sentenced to Death for Stealing a fowl.

■Politician/Government Official granted bail and discharged for stealing billions of Nigeria 

Nigeria we Hail thee.”

Deji Adeyanju vows to fight for Speed Darlington's release

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that popular activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, vowed to fight for the release of musician Speed Darlington, emphasising the need to oppose all forms of oppression. 

Adeyanju asserts that one cannot advocate against oppression while simultaneously being an oppressor, calling attention to the challenges faced by artists in Nigeria. The legal troubles surrounding Speed Darlington have garnered significant support from fans and fellow artists, sparking a movement for justice and fairness in the entertainment industry.