A former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Oyo State has raised concerns about unconstitutional investigations in response to the involvement of Osun State Governor in a controversial death sentence case. The case involves two individuals convicted of armed robbery and sentenced to death by hanging. Following a podcast featuring the parents of one of the convicts, the Governor directed an investigation and pardon process for the convict.
The former Attorney General emphasized the governor’s constitutional power to grant pardons but criticized what he deemed as an unconstitutional investigation. He also cautioned against actions that could endanger judges and expose them to threats from criminals, potentially leading to loss of life.
The lawyer urged both governments and the public to be cautious of misleading information from social media commentators and bloggers aiming to vilify and harass the judiciary. He clarified that the convict in question was part of a notorious armed robbery gang and had been fairly tried and sentenced by the court. He emphasized that while governors and the president have the authority to grant pardons, it is unconstitutional for the executive to investigate judicial decisions or question their validity.
The Attorney General stressed that harassing judges for carrying out their lawful duties based on falsehoods and rumors is deeply distressing and undermines the judiciary’s role as stipulated by the constitution.