The Chief Judge of Katsina State, Musa Danladi, on Thursday, approved the release of 95 inmates as part of an initiative to decongest correctional facilities..
Among them, 91 were granted bail, while four were fully discharged.
Speaking at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Katsina Old, Danladi stated that the decision was based on recommendations from the Sub-Committee on Decongestion of Correctional Centres.
He explained that the affected inmates were considered due to factors such as old age, extended periods of detention, and severe health conditions requiring urgent intervention.
To ensure accountability, he directed that the details and photographs of those released be documented for future reference and tracking.
He also urged the freed individuals to abide by the law, cautioning that those who reoffend may not receive the same opportunity in the future.
Umar Baba, the Controller of Corrections in Katsina State, expressed appreciation for the initiative, highlighting its positive impact on the correctional system.
He noted that reducing inmate numbers not only helps manage overcrowding but also lowers tensions and improves the rehabilitation process.
Baba further encouraged judges and magistrates to consider non-custodial sentencing as an alternative to imprisonment.
He emphasized that such measures would promote better reintegration of offenders into society while preventing unnecessary congestion in correctional facilities.
(Prompt news)