Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has facilitated the release of eight female inmates from the Goron-Dutse Correctional Center by settling their fines and compensation debts.
Among those freed are two pregnant women and two nursing mothers.
During an unscheduled visit to the facility, accompanied by key government officials, Governor Yusuf explained,
“Our aim is not merely to free these women but also to set them on a path of hope and change. This intervention demonstrates our unwavering commitment to inmate welfare and rehabilitation.”
These remarks were confirmed in a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
Assessing Conditions and Planning for Reforms
Governor Yusuf made his unexpected visit to the correctional center to evaluate the living conditions of inmates and explore additional support measures.
Reflecting on the need for broader reforms, he stated;
“We must address the root causes of overcrowding and ensure that every inmate—especially those convicted of minor offenses—receives humane treatment and opportunities for reintegration.”
Noting that only 382 of the 1,939 inmates have been convicted while 1,536 await trial, the Governor expressed concern over the backlog and pledged to work closely with the Judiciary to accelerate justice. He added,
“Collaboration with the Judiciary is crucial. We are determined to ease congestion in our correctional centers through timely interventions and reforms.”
Enhancing Inmate Welfare
In a bid to further improve conditions, Governor Yusuf announced immediate measures to bolster inmate welfare, including the provision of essential supplies. Orders have been given for the delivery of cows, foodstuffs, mattresses, blankets, and a variety of beverages to ensure the inmates’ basic needs are met.
Addressing the inmates directly during his visit, Governor Yusuf urged them to maintain hope, saying,
“Your current hardship is a test of fate. Embrace the opportunity for positive change, and prepare to reintegrate into society as stronger individuals.”
Planned Relocation to Janguza
In a related development, Governor Yusuf also toured the Janguza Maximum Security Correctional Facility. At Janguza, he announced plans to transfer inmates from the Kurmawa Correctional Centre to benefit from improved infrastructure and better living conditions.
Expressing satisfaction with the facility, he noted: “The superior conditions at Janguza set a benchmark for how correctional facilities should be run. We are committed to relocating inmates to where they can receive proper care and rehabilitation.”
He encouraged young, able-bodied inmates to reflect on their experiences and apply these lessons after their release.
Governor Yusuf extended special appreciation to former Minister of Interior, General Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau (Rtd.), for his crucial role in establishing and constructing the Janguza Correctional Centre.
The Governor also reiterated his administration’s determination to support eligible inmates through phased releases, facilitate the return of students to school, and empower individuals via vocational training programs.
Several inmates at both facilities expressed heartfelt gratitude for his intervention and commitment to improving their conditions.
Following the facility visits, Governor Yusuf and his entourage observed Friday Jumu’ah prayers at the Janguza Military Barracks Mosque.
The Chief Imam, Major S.M. Yusuf, led the prayers and offered special benedictions for the Governor and his administration, noting that it was historic for a civilian Governor to join the military community in prayer.
