Federal Government Releases 4,068 Inmates in Effort to Address Overcrowding
The Federal Government (FG) has taken a significant step towards decongesting custodial centers across Nigeria by releasing 4,068 inmates. This move, aimed at promoting a more humane and rehabilitative approach to corrections, was initiated by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The symbolic release took place at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja.
According to the Minister, the primary objective of this action is to alleviate the overcrowding in custodial facilities nationwide, thus creating an environment conducive to the reformation and rehabilitation of offenders. As of November 17, 2023, there were approximately 80,804 inmates housed in 253 custodial centers throughout the country, despite the total installed capacity being less than 50,000.
The Minister stressed the urgent need for reform in the criminal justice system to ensure the expeditious dispensation of justice. He emphasized that a significant proportion of the inmates currently confined in custodial centers are awaiting trial. The Custodial Centre in Kuje, for example, has a maximum capacity of 560 inmates, yet it currently holds 730 individuals, of whom 565 are awaiting trial. This overcrowding issue highlights the necessity of implementing initiatives like the one being undertaken by the FG.
The inmates being released are largely indigent individuals who were unable to pay fines or compensation. To facilitate their reintegration into society, philanthropic individuals, groups, and corporate bodies raised a total of N585 million. In addition to their release, each beneficiary will receive a stipend to support their return to their communities.
The Minister stressed to the inmates that their newfound freedom should be seen as a second chance to rebuild their lives and advised them to abstain from criminal activities. He also revealed that extensive training programs were provided to the inmates to equip them with the necessary skills for self-reliance upon their release.
This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of offering renewed hope and an opportunity for individuals to contribute positively to the nation’s development. The current administration is committed to improving the welfare of inmates and transforming custodial and non-custodial facilities to meet international human rights standards and correctional best practices.
Expressing his gratitude, one of the beneficiaries, Sunday from Anambra State, who had spent 15 months in custody after being sentenced to two years imprisonment with a fine, thanked the Minister of Interior for securing their release. In his remarks, Sunday vowed that he and his fellow beneficiaries would not return to a life of crime.
The release of over 4,000 inmates represents a significant step towards addressing the issue of overcrowding in custodial centers across Nigeria. By prioritizing the reformation and rehabilitation of offenders, the Federal Government is taking proactive measures to create a more just and humane correctional system.
