Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
In a bid to address the severe overcrowding crisis in Nigerian Custodial Centres, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has kickstarted a groundbreaking initiative to release 4,068 inmates who have completed their prison terms but are unable to pay fines or compensation.
The move comes as a response to the alarming congestion in facilities designed for 50,000 but currently housing approximately 80,804 inmates.
Speaking at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja, Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the initiative specifically targets inmates burdened with fines and compensations not exceeding N1 million. The minister highlighted the humanitarian aspect of the effort, offering a second chance at freedom primarily to indigents who lack the financial means to settle their dues.
TruthLive News reports that the initiative received substantial support from philanthropic individuals, groups, and corporate entities, amassing a total of N580 million.
However, the project goes beyond mere release, as the freed inmates will also undergo comprehensive training encompassing practical skills, civic responsibilities, and strategies to prevent relapse into criminal behavior.
Tunji-Ojo stressed the government’s commitment to aligning custodial and non-custodial facilities with international human rights standards and effective correctional practices.
This move reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader vision for a reformed correctional system. The minister applauded the Nigerian Correctional Service for their dedication to humane custody and national security.