The Federal Government has released 4,550 inmates as part of efforts to decongest correctional facilities across the country.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this during a two-day High-Level Conference on Decongestion and Corrections Administration in Nigeria, held in Abuja.
He explained that the inmates were released due to their inability to pay fines imposed by the courts, and their release was in line with the government’s commitment to reforming the correctional service.
According to him, the federal government paid the fines for 4,068 inmates. He added that this is the largest single release of inmates in Nigeria’s history.
Tunji-Ojo noted that the programme is part of the Tinubu-led administration’s efforts to promote justice and fairness, especially for those held for minor offences.
He added that the inmates were also equipped with tools and training to support their reintegration into society.
He said the initiative has helped reduce the number of inmates from over 84,000 to 81,450.
