Gombe State Deputy Governor, Manassah Jatau, on Tuesday lamented the rising congestion in correctional centres and the dangerous mixing of violent and non-violent offenders, stressing that the trend undermines efforts to reform inmates.
Jatau expressed his concern during a courtesy visit by the newly posted Comptroller of Correctional Service in Gombe, Agada Felix-Audu. He pointed out the dangers of mixing inmates of different offence levels within the same facility.
He cautioned that violent offenders could easily influence those with minor offences, exposing them to heightened criminal tendencies, aggression, health risks, and even psychological challenges.
“The situation where hardened criminals are kept together with minor offenders is a dangerous trend.
“It only worsens the problem rather than solving it,” Jatau stated.
The deputy governor acknowledged the enormity of challenges facing the security and justice system in the country, stressing the need for justice to be delivered promptly and without bias.
He also urged some solicitors to desist from compounding the justice system by shielding criminals for selfish interests.
Jatau further identified youthful exuberance as a common issue among inmates, stressing the need for counselling and rehabilitation rather than outright incarceration.
“Most of these young people need guidance, not just punishment. We must prioritise reformation over retribution,” he added.
Jatau pledged the state government’s support to the service in this regard and advised the Comptroller to work in synergy with sister security agencies, especially the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and other stakeholders for an effective fight against crime.
In his remarks, the new Comptroller, Felix-Audu, said his visit was to formally register his presence in Gombe, having just assumed duty in the state, and assured that the service is determined to strengthen criminal justice administration through timely interventions.
“We are working to create a more responsive and efficient system. A biometric database of offenders has already been established to improve information sharing with other security agencies and to help decongest custodial centres nationwide,” Felix-Audu noted.
He stressed that security should not be limited to locking people behind bars but should also focus on psychological support and counselling as part of the correctional process.
He explained that true security extends beyond mere confinement, noting that rehabilitation, particularly for minor offenders, plays a crucial role in preventing repeat crimes and breaking the cycle of criminal behaviour.
Felix-Audu also appreciated the Gombe State Government for providing land for the construction of staff quarters. However, he appealed for further assistance in areas such as access roads, electricity, and water supply to enhance the living and working conditions of correctional officers.
