Kano: Tinubu’s Govt Frees 150 Inmates, Gifts Each N10,000 Travel Allowance

The Federal Government has released 150 inmates from the Maximum Security Custodial Centre Janguza in Kano State as part of efforts to decongest custodial centers and make them more humane for reformation and rehabilitation.

VerseNews reports that the release, represents a nationwide initiative, which is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s focus on renewed hope.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stated that the government spent N13.4 million in Kano as part of the N585 million raised by philanthropic individuals, groups, and corporate bodies for this purpose nationwide.

He said, “The Federal Government wants to decongest Custodial Centres and make them humane for proper reformation and rehabilitation of offenders to take place.

“The released inmates were sentenced to various terms of imprisonment with the option of fine and compensation and cannot afford to pay their fines and are languishing in custody.

“The sum of N13.4 million was spent in Kano state out of N585 million raised by philanthropic individuals, groups and corporate bodies, as part of their corporate social responsibility, for this purpose nationwide.’’

He further explained that all inmates in Custodial Centres who have fines and compensation not exceeding N1 million were qualified and would benefit from this gesture.

“We have given the inmates requisite training aimed at impacting their lives functionally and equipping them with the knowledge for their self-reliance upon discharge.’’

They were given N10,000 each to enable them return to their various homes and villages.

He commended the Controller-General of Corrections and staff of the Nigerian Correctional Service for providing the needed platform and mechanisms towards the safe and humane custody of inmates.

Tunji-Ojo called on the public, communities to receive the returning citizens (inmates) with open arms and refrain from stigmatising them as it could drive them back to committing offence, which would further endanger the society.

He implore the inmates to see the initiative as a second chance to make things right again.

“Stay off crime and criminality and join hands with our father, President Bola Tinubu, to make Nigeria a great nation.

“Abide by the instructions and training you have received while in custody and be good ambassadors in your communities” Tunji-Ojo said

The released inmates were those sentenced to various terms of imprisonment with the option of fines or compensation that they couldn’t afford.

The initiative aims to help them reintegrate into society and discourage recidivism.