In observance of Democracy Day 2024, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has facilitated the release of 110 inmates from the Kaduna Correctional Centre.
During his visit to the facility with renowned Rights Activist and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, Governor Sani highlighted that this initiative is a step towards prison decongestion and offering a fresh start to inmates who merit it.
Out of the 112 pardoned, 22 were released under the governor’s prerogative of mercy, as granted by Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution.
The rest, numbering 88, were those eligible for release upon payment of fines starting from N10,000 or compensations to their victims, beginning at N150,000.
Governor Sani voiced his concerns about the burgeoning inmate population, particularly those in pre-trial detention or undergoing trial, as well as those convicted but given the option of a fine.
He noted the strain on the facilities, which were initially designed for 500 inmates but now house 3,000 despite an upgrade to accommodate 1,100.
He called upon the released individuals to demonstrate their gratitude by maintaining good conduct and encouraged them to learn new skills.
Falana suggested that to further alleviate prison overcrowding, Chief Magistrates should regularly inspect police detention centers. He also lauded Governor Sani’s actions and advised the freed inmates to lead law-abiding lives to avoid re-incarceration.
The Controller of Correctional Service in Kaduna, Isah Mohammed Nuru, earlier reported challenges faced by the Custodial Centre, including a high number of inmates awaiting trial and a shortage of operational vehicles for court transportation.
