NCoS plans inmates’ headcount over congestion

The Nigerian Correctional Service said it is preparing to deploy its personnel and resources for inmates’ audit across the nation’s custodial centres.

The audit, part of a comprehensive strategy to address the overcrowding and under-resourcing issues within Nigeria’s prison system, was announced on June 14, 2024 by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

The NCoS spokesperson Umar Abubakar, in a chat with our correspondent on Wednesday revealed that preparations are nearly complete, with personnel and resources set to be deployed soon.

“The said audit is the brainchild of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

“The audit is expected to take place any moment soon as we are putting the finishing touches to the planning stage.

“Very soon, we will deploy both men and materials to different custodial centres nationwide for the audit,” Abubakar stated.

The spokesperson noted that the audit will focus on several key areas, including evaluating inmates whose sentences have expired and reviewing cases for possible clemency.

 The audit will also assess judicial interventions such as bail and acquittal, ensuring that inmates are released on their legal status.

“Criteria for releasing inmates is hinged on the expiration of their sentences as imposed by the courts or military court-martial.

“Once the time for the inmate to be released comes, we carry out a post-release assessment and other necessary procedures, and the inmate is released.

“Inmates can also be released through clemency extended by the Executive arm of government.

“We often make recommendations to the executive on the progress of inmates, and we do advise them on inmates who are fit to enjoy pardon and other forms of clemency. Others are through judicial reviews like jail delivery, bail, acquittal,  and so on,” he explained.

In addition to the audit, the government is implementing other measures to alleviate prison congestion, Abubakar added.

These include non-custodial sanctions such as community service and probation, as well as plans to expand and modernise prison facilities.