Kano Chief Judge Frees 37 Ailing Awaiting-Trial Inmates

37 Inmates Released in Kano: Chief Judge's Move to Decongest Prisons, Promote Rehabilitation

The Kano Chief Judge has released 37 awaiting-trial prisoners who are ill, in a move to decongest the prisons. This decision highlights the ongoing issue of prison congestion in Nigeria, where approximately 8 out of 10 inmates are awaiting trial.

Prison Congestion Statistics:

• Total Inmates: 67,626
• Awaiting Trial: 47,953
• Convicted: 19,673 

Similar actions have been taken in other states, such as Akwa Ibom, where the Chief Judge, Ekaete Fabian-Obot, freed awaiting-trial inmates during an inspection tour of correctional facilities. These efforts aim to address the challenges faced by the Nigerian prison system.

Justice Dije Abdu-Aboki, the Chief Judge of Kano State, has ordered the release of 37 inmates from the Goron Dutse Medium Security Custodial Centre in a move to decongest prisons in the state. This decision was made based on health grounds and the lengthy stay of these inmates in the custodial facility without trial.

The released inmates had been held for an extended period without trial, and some were also granted freedom due to health concerns. The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCOS) Public Relations Officer, SC Musbahu Kofar-Nasarawa, announced this development on Monday in Kano, highlighting the efforts to address prison congestion.

Reasons for Release:

Health Grounds: Inmates with severe health issues were granted release 

Prolonged Detention Without Trial: Inmates held for extended periods without trial were freed 

This move aims to alleviate prison overcrowding and ensure justice is served. The Kano State government's actions demonstrate a commitment to upholding human rights and addressing the criminal justice system's challenges.

In a welcome move to address congestion in the Nigerian prison system, the Chief Judge has released 37 inmates who have been awaiting trial for years, many of whom are ill. The Chief Judge advised the released inmates to “be of good behavior and avoid acts of misconduct that might lure them back into crime.” This wise counsel acknowledges the challenges faced by those re-entering society.

To support their reintegration, each freed inmate received N10,000 for transportation, a practical gesture to help them get back on their feet. The Controller of Corrections, Kano State Command, Ado Inuwa, commended the Chief Judge's decision, highlighting the importance of considering the inmates' long stay and ill-health.

The State of Nigerian Prisons

Nigeria's correctional facilities are currently overcrowded by 37%, with approximately 70% of inmates awaiting trial. This issue is long-standing, with roots in the country's justice system, including lengthy court proceedings and arbitrary arrests. The congestion has severe consequences, including unsanitary conditions and health problems.

Statistics

Occupancy Rate: 137% 

Awaiting Trial Inmates: 73% of total inmates 

Convicted Inmates: 27% of total inmates 

Efforts to address these challenges include increasing prison capacity and implementing efficient criminal justice systems to reduce awaiting trial incarceration. By releasing inmates and providing support for reintegration, the Chief Judge's gesture offers a glimmer of hope for meaningful reform.