Amid the heavy downpour, the Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and his deputy Noimot Salako-Oyedele have on Monday been sworn in by the Chief Justice of the State, Mosunmola Dipeolu.
The inauguration ceremony which coincided with the governorโs 63rd birthday was held at the MKO Abiola stadium, Abeokuta the state capital
The drenched governor after inspecting the guard of honour provided by the security agencies and taking a tour around the stadium in a motorcade to recognized dignitaries present at the stadium maintained that his administration will continue to work tirelessly for the development and progress of the state, and would build on the successes noted on the ISEYA motto of “Building Our State Together.”
While emphasizing that he did not pledge to do everything, Abiodun stated that he would execute the little he had promised in an effective manner and would not be sidetracked by doubters.
The fifth executive governor of Ogun state who pledged to deliver a dividend of democracy to the people also disclosed that he will complete the 250-bed hospital project as well as open up the President Muhammadu Buhari Estate embarked upon by his predecessor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun.
He also commuted the sentences of 49 prisoners, including two who had received death sentences, to life imprisonment.
โI have signed the appropriate warrant ordering the immediate release of 49 convicts currently imprisoned in different correctional facilities across Ogun State.ย
โI have also signed a warrant ordering that the death sentences imposed on 3 death row convicts be immediately converted to prison sentences.
โThe convicts who have received this gesture today, are inmates who have served long prison sentences with some having been in prison for more than 20 years. At least two of these convicts have serious medical conditions such as tuberculosis and HIV which even render them a health hazard to the prison community.ย
โThree of these convicts are over 60 years old, with one being 84 years old. Others already have less than two years of their sentences to serve anyway. All of these convicts have shown remorse for their crimes, acquired skills and certifications in prison, and demonstrated verified good conduct during their imprisonment.
โThe Ogun State of our dreams is not only for one class of persons. It is not perfect. It is an inclusive State that gives opportunities to the law-abiding, and second chances to deserving offenders.โ he added.
While the governor was speaking, there was a small drama as the backstage on which he was standing collapsed. However, order was restored as dignitaries who had been positioned near the stage were removed.