Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, has secured the release of eight female inmates from Goron-Dutse Correctional Centre, including two pregnant women and two nursing mothers, by settling their fines and compensation in full.
During an unannounced visit to the prison, Governor Yusuf stated, “These women, particularly those expecting or caring for infants, deserve compassion and the opportunity to return to their families. No child should be born or raised behind bars.”
Accompanied by senior government officials, the governor inspected inmate living conditions and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prison reform and welfare. “We are here not only to inspect the facility but to reassure inmates that they have not been forgotten. Our priority is rehabilitation over punishment,” he said.
His spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, confirmed in a statement on Friday that the release was part of a wider initiative aimed at supporting rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders.
Governor Yusuf urged the inmates to see their incarceration as a temporary phase and to embrace personal transformation. “This is a fresh start. Use it to rebuild your lives,” he encouraged.
Expressing alarm over overcrowding, he revealed that of the 1,939 inmates in Goron-Dutse, only 382 had been convicted, with 1,536 still awaiting trial. He pledged to collaborate with the judiciary to fast-track cases and ease the strain on correctional centres.
To further reduce congestion, Yusuf announced plans to transfer inmates from the overburdened Kurmawa Correctional Centre to the more modern Janguza Maximum Security Facility, which he also visited.
Praising Janguza’s infrastructure, he said, “It is only fitting that inmates be moved here for improved living conditions.”
The governor also directed immediate welfare support, including the delivery of cows, food items, mattresses, blankets, and beverages for inmates.