Nigerian Teen on Death Row for Hen Theft Granted Pardon.

Segun Olowookere, sentenced to death at 17 for stealing poultry, has been granted a pardon after 10 years on death row.

Arrested in 2010 alongside Morakinyo Sunday for using crude weapons to steal hens and eggs from a police officer’s home, Olowookere was sentenced to death in 2014, sparking national outrage over the harsh penalty.

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke announced the pardon, directing the Justice Commissioner to initiate Olowookere’s release, emphasizing fairness and the sanctity of life.

Olowookere, who has been in Lagos’ Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison, is set to be freed in early 2025. The fate of his accomplice remains unclear.

Nigeria, with over 3,400 on death row, has not executed anyone since 2012.