Kano CJ reviews 82 cases, frees seven inmates on medical grounds

The Chief Judge of Kano State, Justice Dije Abdu Aboki, has reviewed the cases of 82 awaiting-trial inmates during a jail delivery exercise at two custodial centres in the state.

The exercise, conducted at the Kurmawa and Goron Dutse Custodial Centres, was aimed at reducing prolonged detention, decongesting custodial facilities and promoting the speedy dispensation of justice.

According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Kano State Command, CSC Musbahu Lawan K/Nassarawa, the Chief Judge reviewed the cases of inmates who had spent extended periods in custody, including some who had yet to face formal trial.

Following consideration of their cases and medical conditions, Justice Aboki ordered the immediate release of seven inmates on medical grounds.

The statement said the exercise reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to protecting the rights of persons in custody and ensuring that no individual is detained beyond what is permitted by law.

Addressing the inmates, the Chief Judge stressed the need for justice to be administered fairly and without unnecessary delays.

The Controller of Corrections, Kano State Command, Ahmed Yusuf Lakpene, urged the released inmates to regard their freedom as an opportunity to rebuild their lives and remain law-abiding.

Lakpene also commended the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, for providing an environment that supports the humane treatment of inmates across custodial facilities.

He described regular jail delivery exercises as an important mechanism for decongesting custodial centres and improving access to justice.

The Chief Judge was accompanied by the Chief Registrar of the High Court, the Director of Public Prosecutions, representatives of the Commissioner of Police, officials of the Legal Aid Council and other stakeholders in the administration of criminal justice.

The Kano Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service said it would continue to collaborate with the judiciary and other justice-sector institutions to promote timely trials, reduce congestion and safeguard the rights of persons in custody.

Jail delivery exercises are conducted to review the cases of persons in custody, particularly those awaiting trial, with a view to addressing prolonged detention, identifying cases requiring urgent attention and reducing congestion in custodial facilities.