Nasarawa Gov Urges Action to Decongest Correctional Facilities Amid Rising Awaiting Trial Inmates

Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule’s administration has been informed of the large number of inmates awaiting trial in correctional facilities across the state. Although the governor has not made a direct statement on this issue, the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Aisha Bashir, has taken steps to address the problem.

Recent Developments:

• Inmate Releases: Justice Bashir granted amnesty to 57 inmates in August 2023 and another 36 inmates in December 2024, highlighting the judiciary’s efforts to decongest correctional facilities.
• Overcrowding Concerns: The Controller of Corrections in Nasarawa State, Inusa Adamu, noted that most custodial centers are overstretched, carrying more than twice their original capacities.
• Collaborative Efforts: The state government is exploring partnerships with organizations like the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria to provide legal services to indigent inmates and reduce the number of awaiting trial inmates.

National Context:

• Awaiting Trial Statistics: Nigeria has a significant number of inmates awaiting trial, with estimates ranging from 48,932 to 53,836 inmates across the country, representing about 69% of the total prison population.

Judicial Reforms:

• Alternative Dispute Resolution: Justice Bashir emphasized the importance of using alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to decongest correctional facilities and reduce the burden on the judiciary.
• Custodian Home for Minors: The state plans to establish a separate custodian home for minors to prevent them from being detained with adult offenders.