Adeleke’s COS Akinleye Empowers ex-Inmates Who Backed Imole’s Second Term

NEWS UPDATE

THE Osun State Chief of Staff, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye empowered some of the pardoned inmates released by Governor Ademola Adeleke last year as part of efforts to support their reintegration into society and provide them with sustainable means of livelihood.

The beneficiaries who were among those granted pardon by the state government demonstrated remarkable commitment to the administration of Governor Adeleke by voluntarily taking Awareness of New Political Party and their campaign to the streets, markets and various communities across the state during the 2026 gubernatorial election period.

They mobilised, campaigned and canvassed for votes in support of the Governor’s re-election contributing their own quota to the successful return of Imole for a second term.

In recognition of their efforts, sacrifices and loyalty, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye presented the beneficiaries with Point-of-Sale (POS) machines and cash capital to enable them to establish and commence small businesses, and a team to monitor their progress over the next 3 – 24 months.

The empowerment is aimed at giving the beneficiaries a fresh start helping them become economically independent and discouraging a return to circumstances that could jeopardise their reintegration into society rather than merely offering temporary assistance. The gesture provides them with practical tools to earn a legitimate livelihood and contribute positively to their communities.

The Chief of Staff’s intervention further underscores the importance of giving people who have received a second chance the opportunity to rebuild their lives. Their transition from incarceration to productive economic activity reflects the broader principle that rehabilitation should be accompanied by empowerment and opportunities for self-reliance.

The gesture also represents recognition of the beneficiaries personal contributions during the campaign for Governor Adeleke’s second-term victory.

Having voluntarily committed themselves to the mobilisation effort, their support has now been reciprocated through an initiative designed to improve their economic wellbeing.

The empowerment is therefore not only a reward for their contribution but also a practical demonstration of the Adeleke administration’s commitment to rehabilitation, human capital development, empowerment and inclusive governance.

By extending support to people who have previously faced difficult circumstances, the administration is reinforcing the message that every citizen deserves an opportunity to rebuild, contribute and prosper.

The beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the intervention describing it as an opportunity to begin a new chapter of their lives with dignity and hope.

The initiative by Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye further strengthens the administration’s people-centred approach where governance goes beyond infrastructure and policies to include empowering individuals, restoring hope and ensuring that no one is left behind.

From pardon to empowerment, the beneficiaries have been given another opportunity to rewrite their stories and make meaningful contributions to society.