The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has revealed that at least 3,590 inmates across custodial centres in Nigeria are currently on death row. NCoS Public Relations Officer, Assistant Controller of Corrections Abubakar Umar, shared this information with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Abuja.
As of September 3, 2024, Umar reported that the total number of inmates in the country’s custodial centres stands at 84,741, which includes 82,821 males and 1,920 females. Among these, 57,750 are Awaiting Trial Inmates, consisting of 56,303 males and 1,447 females.
The breakdown of the inmate population is as follows: 21,900 convicted inmates (21,519 males and 381 females) and 1,501 lifers (1,478 males and 23 females). The death row population includes 3,517 males and 73 females.
Umar highlighted that the majority of inmates are awaiting trial, which presents a significant challenge for the service due to their high numbers. However, he assured that the NCoS is actively working to address this issue and expedite the judicial processing for Awaiting Trial Persons.
Thanks to the initiative and support of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the NCoS has managed to reduce the inmate population by releasing 4,063 individuals who either paid fines or compensation. Additionally, efforts are underway to alleviate custodial congestion through the construction of new facilities, expansion of community sentencing, enhancement of court logistics, and implementation of various decongestion measures.
The NCoS has also strengthened partnerships with other agencies, leading to improved security and positive outcomes at custodial facilities. Umar reported that security within the facilities is stable, with no internal insurrections.
Significant progress has been made in inmate care, including personal reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society. The NCoS’s collaboration with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has resulted in a notable number of inmates participating in academic programmes. As of August 31, 2024, 1,282 inmates are enrolled in NOUN’s special study centre, with 1,215 pursuing Bachelor of Science degrees, 62 studying for Postgraduate Diplomas and Master’s degrees, and five working towards Doctor of Philosophy degrees, three of whom are currently writing their theses.
NAN
