Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice M. L. Abimbola has granted amnesty to 22 inmates of Abolongo Prisons, Oyo, Oyo State just as three others were committed to three months community service.
These persons were those awaiting trial for stealing, malicious damage, loitering, street fighting.
They were pardoned on Wednesday upon appearing before a three member special court consisting of Deputy Chief Registrars Mrs O. A. Adetujoye, Mrs O. A. Ogunrin and Mrs S. A. Oyerinde.
The consideration for minor offenders by the Chief Judge was at the instance of an advocate for prisons decongestion and member of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Mr Adetayo Adekunle.
In his remarks, Adekunle enjoined those freed to lead responsible lives for themselves and the country at large.
In his exhortation, Chairman, Oyo Metropolitan Development Association, Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu admonished the released inmates to learn from their experiences and impact their societies.
Speaking, Deputy Controller of Abolongo Prisons, Mr S. C. Esan urged youths to imbibe such noteworthy gestures exemplified by Adekunle in living positively and responsibly.
Esan bemoaned that some youths of today were wont to involving in crime and drugs.
Those freed signed their release warrant and assisted home by members of the New Covenant Church and Justice and Peace Development Movement Oyo who offered clothing, food and some stipend.
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