Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has granted freedom to 12 inmates across five custodial centres as part of events organised to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day and 28th anniversary of the creation of the state.
During a ceremony in Lafia, the state capital, the governor urged the released inmates to make the best use of their experiences in the correctional facilities to lead productive lives and contribute positively to society.
Sule also congratulated the state’s controller of correctional centres for effectively managing the facilities and commended the inmates for their dedication to acquiring vocational skills while in custody.
He pointed out the government’s commitment to improving the well-being of inmates and addressing some of the logistical challenges facing the custodial centres.
In her remarks, the Chief Judge of Nasarawa State, Justice Aisha Bashir Aliyu, reaffirmed the judiciary’s efforts to ensure that the correctional facilities in the state are not overcrowded.
She stated the importance of the custodial centres in rehabilitating inmates and shaping their attitudes.
The state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Labaran Magaji, explained that the amnesty granted to the twelve inmates aligns with the constitutional provision allowing the state’s Committee on Prerogative of Mercy to recommend the release of inmates serving various sentences.
Controller of the correctional centres, Godwin Ochekpa, expressed his gratitude to Governor Sule for his concern for the inmates’ welfare and for improving conditions at the facilities.
Ochekpa noted that the governor’s visit, coinciding with Nigeria’s independence celebrations, was a great honor for the custodial centres.
Governor Sule also extended his sympathies to the families of soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty in the state, acknowledging their sacrifice and service.
Gov Sule grants amnesty to 12 prison inmates in Nasarawa
