The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has revealed that 3,590 inmates are currently on death row in the country’s custodial facilities.
In a press briefing on Wednesday in Abuja, NCoS Public Relations Officer, Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC) Abubakar Umar, reported that as of September 3, 2024, the total inmate population in Nigeria stands at 84,741. This includes 82,821 males and 1,920 females.
Umar detailed that 57,750 inmates are Awaiting Trial Inmates (ATIs), comprising 56,303 males and 1,447 females. The breakdown of the overall population includes 21,900 convicted inmates (21,519 males and 381 females) and 1,501 lifers (1,478 males and 23 females). The 3,590 inmates on death row consist of 3,517 males and 73 females.
He acknowledged the challenge posed by the high number of Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs) and highlighted efforts to address this issue through timely judicial processing and other measures.
Umar also noted that recent initiatives, supported by the Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, have led to the release of 4,063 individuals who were granted the option to pay fines or compensation. The NCoS is working to alleviate custodial congestion by constructing new facilities, expanding community sentencing, and improving court logistics.
On inmate welfare, Umar reported improvements in security and treatment, including partnerships with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). As of August 31, 2024, 1,282 inmates are enrolled in NOUN’s special study center. This includes 1,215 pursuing Bachelor of Science degrees, 62 enrolled in Postgraduate Diploma and Masters programs, and five working towards Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
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