According to a statement issued by the state's commissioner for Information, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, in Akure on Monday, the Governor's gesture was in line with the power conferred on him by section 212 (1) of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended.
The statement said reprieve came for the prisoners following considered requests and application for full and conditional pardon made to Governor Mimiko by Human Right and Civil Society Organisations to the effect.
The statement said the state Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy recommended some convicts for release and commutal of sentences by the Governor to mark the Democracy day, following which eight prisoners have been granted outright pardon while three others got their death sentences commuted to life and 18 years imprisonment respectively.
The convicts, who have all served portions of their term, were granted amnesty on the ground of good conduct and being outstanding models.
