The federal government has released 68 inmates from the Zaria custodial centre as part of its plan to reduce overcrowding in correctional facilities nationwide.
Dr. Ado Saleh, the Comptroller of Correctional Service, Kaduna State, revealed that the government has paid N52 million in fines and compensation for 399 inmates in various correctional centers across Kaduna State.
Saleh explained, “We are here to release 68 inmates from Zaria, Makarfi, Soba, and Ikara correctional centers. 110 inmates were earlier released in Kaduna. The ceremony in Zaria is part of the federal government’s program. A total of 399 inmates in Kaduna State were marked for release at the cost of N52 million.”
He clarified that the release program is happening simultaneously in Kaduna, Kafanchan, and Zaria, aiming to release 281 inmates across the state, with 68 from the Zaria zone.
Each freed inmate will receive N10,000 to cover transportation expenses. Mr. Olubunmi Ojo, Minister of Interior, highlighted that a total of 4,068 inmates across the country would benefit from this initiative.
