By Ado Oyeyemi
The family of Sunday Morakinyo, one of the Osun State indigenes recently pardoned in the infamous “death-for-fowl” case, has called on the government and compassionate individuals to assist in managing his mental illness, which reportedly developed during his incarceration.
Morakinyo, who was arrested in November 2010 for allegedly stealing fowls and eggs in Oyan, Osun State, was sentenced to death alongside his co-accused, Segun Olowookere, by the Osun State High Court in 2014. The case, which revolved around the alleged theft of items worth N20,000, sparked public outrage due to the perceived severity of the sentence.
Following his pardon by Governor Ademola Adeleke last week, Morakinyo returned home exhibiting signs of mental illness. According to his uncle, Ojo Olaide, Morakinyo was mentally stable and in good health before his arrest. Olaide blamed the police for implicating the duo, alleging that their confessions were fabricated under duress and torture during detention at the Okuku Police Division.
“Sunday was healthy before his arrest. The police arrested him for stealing, but he denied the allegations. Eventually, the case escalated to robbery charges, which he did not commit,” Olaide said. He further claimed that the actual culprits, who were minors, were sent to a welfare home and later released, while Morakinyo and Olowookere were wrongfully convicted.
The family noted that Morakinyo’s mental deterioration began during his time at the Ilesa Correctional Centre, likely a result of the harsh conditions he endured.
Olowookere, in an earlier interview, corroborated this account, attributing Morakinyo’s mental illness to the severe torture they experienced during their arrest and detention.
The family has appealed for urgent intervention to help Morakinyo access medical and psychological care to restore his health and well-being.
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