Nigerian Correctional Service Kano Command Reports 70% of Inmates Awaiting Trial

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Kano State Command has reported that 70% of inmates in the state's custodial centers are awaiting trial, constituting a major challenge of overcrowding. According to the Command's Public Relations Officer, SC Musbahu Lawan, only 30% of inmates are convicted, while the majority have cases yet to be determined by the courts.

Lawan explained that the high number of awaiting trial inmates prevents the effective management and implementation of reformatory programs in the facilities. "The number of awaiting trial inmates has tripled that of convicted inmates," he stated. "Convicted inmates are easier to manage as they are mandated to engage in reformatory programs, an opportunity that awaiting trial persons might not have."

The overcrowding in Kano's custodial centers poses a significant challenge to the standard operations of the handlers, who are also vulnerable to potential threats. The facilities are stretched beyond capacity, hindering the full implementation of rehabilitation and reintegration efforts for the inmates.

Why this matters: The high percentage of awaiting trial inmates in Kano's correctional facilities highlights systemic issues in Nigeria's criminal justice system. Addressing this overcrowding crisis is crucial for ensuring the humane treatment of inmates and the effective implementation of reformatory programs aimed at reducing recidivism.

To address the overcrowding issue, the federal government has introduced non-custodial measures like parole, community service, and probation. Some judges in Kano have been complementing these efforts by making use of non-custodial sentencing. The NCoS is also working with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) to establish more study centers in the custodial centers, providing educational opportunities for inmates. However, the lack of adequate study facilities and materials remains a major obstacle in expanding these programs.

Despite the challenges, the Kano Command of the NCoS remains committed to its mandate of ensuring safe and humane custody, protecting society, and reforming, rehabilitating, and reintegrating offenders. Lawan emphasized, "If the awaiting trial persons are eventually convicted, the service would not face the issue of congestion, as the law allows for the transfer of convicted inmates to any facility in the country."

Key Takeaways

• 70% of inmates in Kano's correctional centers are awaiting trial, causing overcrowding.
• Convicted inmates are easier to manage and engage in reformatory programs.
• Overcrowding hinders rehabilitation and reintegration efforts for inmates.
• The government has introduced non-custodial measures to address the overcrowding issue.
• Lack of study facilities and materials remains a major obstacle in expanding educational programs.