Startling statistics have emerged from the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) as Controller-General Mr. Haliru Nababa disclosed that out of the total 79,076 inmates residing in correctional centres across the nation as of July 31, a staggering 54,171 are individuals awaiting trial.
The revelation was made on Thursday in Abuja during an international conference focused on prisoners’ justice, held to mark the 2023 International Prisoners Justice Day. Representing Nababa at the event was Mr. Abdulai Magaji, Deputy Controller-General of the Finance and Accounts Department of the NCoS.
The Controller-General stressed, “As at July 31, no fewer than 54,171 inmates, representing 69 per cent of the 79,076 inmates are awaiting-trial persons, while 24,905 inmates, representing 31 per cent are convicts. This remains the most daunting setback confronting the NCoS.”
Nababa also highlighted the NCoS Act (2019), emphasizing its potential to enhance prompt justice delivery within Nigeria. He underlined the significance of the conference, noting that justice is the bedrock of any society and plays a pivotal role in preserving the rights and dignity of all individuals, including those incarcerated.
The theme of the conference, “Enhancing Global Response for Prisoners’ Justice,” aligns with the worldwide emphasis on humane treatment for detainees. Mr. Magaji echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the improvements made in providing justice access for awaiting-trial inmates, thanks to enhanced logistics support for the NCoS.
Rev. Fr. Victor Nyoroh, the Chief Convener of the conference, reiterated the global relevance of the theme and underscored Nigeria’s role in ensuring swift justice for inmates. He also highlighted the significance of the Prisoners’ Justice Day, which is observed annually on August 10 as a global movement to remember those who died in custody and to advocate for improved treatment of prisoners.
This conference stands as a united effort by stakeholders in the criminal justice system to navigate challenges and enhance the pursuit of prisoners’ justice in Nigeria. The event aptly coincides with the global solidarity movement that commemorates the rights of inmates, echoing its origins in Canada in 1974 and its vital importance on a global scale.
