FG frees 150 inmates in Kano
By Khadija Aliyu
The Federal Government has freed 150 inmates from the Maximum Security Custodial Centre Janguza in Kano State.
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, made the disclosure while releasing the inmates in Kano.
Represented by the Assistant Director in the Ministry of Interior, Dr Anayo Romanus Nzekwe, Tunji Ojo said, the release of 150 inmates out of the 4,068 nationwide, was part of President Bola Tinubu’s mantra of renewed hope.
He highlighted that,the released inmates were sentenced to various terms of imprisonment with the option of fine and compensation, but cannot afford to pay their fines and are languishing in custody.
The minister noted that, the federal government wants to decongest Custodial Centres, and make them humane for proper reformation and rehabilitation of offenders, to take place.
“The sum of N13.4 million was spent in Kano state out of N585 million raised by philanthropic individuals, groups and corporate bodies, as part of their corporate social responsibility, for this purpose nationwide.’’
Tunji-Ojo called on the public communities, to receive the returning citizens (inmates) with open arms and refrain from stigmatising them, as it could drive them back to committing offence, which would further endanger the society.
THe Controller General of Corrections, Halliru Nababa commended the Minister of Interior, for securing the release of 150 inmates, sentenced with options of fine by various courts in Kano.
Represented by the Controller of Corrections, Kano State Command, Suleiman Inuwa, said the fine paid and compensation, has already made a significant impact on the lives of numerous inmates across the country.
He urged them not to return to crime, and make judicious use of the transport fare given to them, to start a small business that would help them earn a living.
Speaking on behalf of the released inmates, Usman Yusuf, thanked the federal government for setting them free and pledged not to go back to crime.
Radio Nigeria reports that, each of the inmates were given N10,000 to enable them return to their communities.
