In a concerted effort to alleviate congestion in correctional centers nationwide, the Federal Government announced on Thursday that it had garnered N585 million towards settling fines for inmates.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed this in Kano during the release of 150 inmates, whose fines were cleared by the government.
Expressing concern over the plight of over 4,000 inmates held due to unpaid fines, Tunji-Ojo had pledged the government’s commitment to addressing the issue.
The released funds, estimated at about N500 million, aimed to secure the freedom of these individuals.
At the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Janguza in Kano State, 150 inmates benefited from the initiative on Thursday.
An Assistant Director in the ministry, Dr. Anayo Romanus-Nzekwe, represented the Interior Minister.
Romanus-Nzekwe highlighted that the funds were raised through philanthropic contributions from individuals, groups, and corporate entities, emphasizing their corporate social responsibility.
The Federal Government, in collaboration with these contributors, aimed to release a total of 4,068 inmates nationwide, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
A total of N13.4 million was allocated in Kano State from the raised funds, with each released inmate receiving N10,000 to facilitate their return home.
The initiative targeted inmates with fines and compensation not exceeding N1 million.
The Minister acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian Correctional Service in providing a platform for safe and humane custody.
He urged the public to welcome returning inmates without stigma, emphasizing their role as potential contributors to society.
The Controller General of Corrections, Mr. Halliru Nababa, praised the Minister for the release of 150 inmates, noting the positive impact on lives across the country.
In a related development, the Chief Judge of Gombe State, Justice Halima Mohammed, pardoned and freed 185 inmates in five custodial facilities.
This move followed the recommendation of the Criminal Justice Reform Committee. Justice Mohammed urged the released individuals to maintain good behavior and acknowledged the Gombe State Government’s support for the decongestion exercise.
The Comptroller of the Gombe State Command of NCoS, Lawan Gusau, expressed gratitude for the compassionate efforts of Justice Halima Mohammed, highlighting that 182 inmates benefited from this unprecedented release.
