PRESS RELEASE COVID-19: KEBBI BEGINS DECONGESTION OF PRISONS, RELEASES INMATES

The Kebbi State Government has commenced the process of decongesting prisons in the state following the approval of the exercise by Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu in line with the directive from the federal government to decongest prisons so as to protect inmates from contracting the dreaded Corona virus disease.

The exercise started on Tuesday 21/4/2020 with compiling the names of the inmates and subsequent release of the prisoners.

Kebbi State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Ramatu Adamu Gulma made this known during the release of about one hundred and eleven inmates performed by the Chief Justice of the state, Justice Sulaiman Muhammad Ambursa at Argungu and Birnin kebbi new and Old Correctional Service Centres.

The commissioner further announced that, the state government has paid fines of the inmates in addition to giving them ten thousand naira each to cater for transportation back to their respective destinations.

She advised the freed inmates to be of good character at all times as they rejoin their communities.

Speaking earlier, the State Chief Judge, Justice Suleiman Muhammad said some of the inmates who regained their freedom fell under presidential pardon while the remaining ones were either discharged fully or were released on administrative bail.

He called on those who have not benefitted from the gesture to exercise patience and should pray for their inclusion in subsequent exercises.

The exercise will continue at other Correctional Service Centers in Yauri, Zuru, Jega and Bagudo local government areas where more inmates are expected to be granted pardon and set free.

Signed:
YAHAYA SARKI
Special Adviser (SA) Media to Kebbi State Governor
22/4/2020