Ogun State Attorney General Oluwasina Ogungbade says the state will carefully enforce death sentences, prioritising the most serious crimes and reviewing others

Oluwasina Ogungbade, SAN, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ogun State, has emphasised that the state will adopt a cautious approach in implementing death sentences, enforcing them only for the most severe cases while reviewing others for potential redemption.

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Ogungbade made the remarks on Friday during an exclusive interview on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese Ijebu, highlighting the irreversible nature of capital punishment and the need for careful scrutiny.

He noted that the increase in violent crimes in the state, including ritual killings and kidnappings, requires measured action.

“Some crimes, like a planned ritual killing or child abduction, leave no room for leniency. But in cases where a person caused death in a fit of anger, they may not pose a societal danger if given another chance,” he said.

The Attorney General clarified that the review process does not reopen cases adjudicated by competent courts, but assesses convicted individuals based on the premeditation and severity of their crimes.

He further explained that the State Prerogative of Mercy Board has not approved pardons for offenders convicted of ritual killings, kidnapping, or sexual offences.

Ogungbade also addressed concerns about the misuse of law enforcement in civil matters. He warned against involving police in disputes over property, tenancy, or marital disagreements, stating that these should be resolved through legal channels.

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Additionally, he revealed that a new bill criminalising ritual killings has been finalised and will be submitted to the Ogun State House of Assembly within three weeks.