Independence: Obiano commutes 18 prisoners’ death sentences to life imprisonment

18 inmates on death row in prisons in the State have been committed to life imprisonment. Governor Willie Obiano at a Eucharistic mass held at St Mathew’s Catholic Church, Akpu in Orumba South Council Area, announced the pardon which he noted is in the exercise of his right to the prerogative of mercy as part of his independence package to Ndi Anambra.

The 8 prisoners who have been in prison for 19 years, will now be granted freedom upon completion of the 12-year term of life imprisonment.

Governor Obiano also revealed that 12 other prisoners serving various sentences would have their sentences reduced while some will be granted amnesty.

The Governor further revealed that his administration will construct a classroom block as well as provide a 16-seater bus to the school for Father Tansi Memorial Secondary School, owned by the parish while the vandalised power facilities that were responsible for the power outage in the community will be addressed this week.

He appealed to people of the community to continue to support his administration to sustain its developmental strides in the state, assuring them that he is committed to pursuing programmes that will make a meaningful impact on the lives of the people.

In a homily, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Paulinus Ezeokafor said what is important in the life of any Christian is to strive to do good works and keep God’s commandment to love and urged them through their actions, to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

He commended the Governor for his interventions in addressing the erosion challenges at the Retreat Center, Okpuno and providing an access road to Peter University, Achina/Onneh and appealed for more support towards the Diocesan developmental projects.

On the 57th Independence Anniversary of Nigeria, the Catholic Prelate acknowledged that the country is presently experiencing difficult times due to so much marginalization and bad leadership, and said now is the time for the leaders to start getting things right by doing things that promote equity and justice among the various ethnic groups.

The event featured special rendition by students of Father Tansi Memorial School on the biography of the Governor as well as a performance by the church choir.