Yemi Obafemi
Zamfara state Governor Dauda Lawal has granted mercy to 31 inmates in Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Gusau, the state capital, citing their genuine remorsefulness.
Lawal said the decision is part of his administration effort to reduce the overcrowding in correctional centers.
On Friday, the governor visited the Gusau Medium Custodial Centre, where he signed to pardon the inmates in accordance with Nigeria’s constitution.
In a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, stated that the Constitution allows governors to reduce sentences and pardon inmates.
In his remarks at the event, Governor Lawal said inmates convicted of various crimes were pardoned to encourage their transformation into law-abiding citizens.
“Today, I am exercising the power granted by Section 212(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to show mercy to inmates, which aims to alleviate imprisonment’s hardships and psychological distress.
“The decision was made after thoroughly examining the prisoners’ records, which confirmed their genuine remorse. Furthermore, I have approved a gift of N50,000 to each pardoned inmate to support their reintegration into society.
“This is an effort by my administration to reduce the overcrowding in correctional centers, especially at this time when we are making arrests of suspected bandits and informants.”
The governor also pledged to provide comprehensive support to the Gusau Correctional Center, following a thorough inspection of the facility.
Earlier, the Comptroller of Corrections, Zamfara Command, Umar Galadima, commended Governor Lawal for his visit and decision to grant mercy to inmates.
