There Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS has said that there are now 79,076 pre-trial detainees in its care than there were a year ago (79,785).
NCos revealed this at the International Conference on Prisons Justice, with the theme “Enhancing Global Response to Prisoners’ Justice,” organized by Earthspring International in collaboration with the Vincentian International Network for Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (VIN-JPC), Controller-General of NCoS Haliru Nababa in Abuja.
He said: “Of recent, the service has witnessed significant improvement in the area of access to justice by awaiting trial inmates because of the massive improvement in logistics support. The era of inmates missing their day in court due to lack of mobility has been mitigated to the barest minimum. This feat is better appreciated with knowledge of the disposition of inmates in NCoS custody.
“As at July 31, 2023, about 69 per cent (54,171) of 79,076 inmates were awaiting trial, while 31 per cent (24,905) were convicted. This remains the most daring setback to the NCoS. One can only imagine the enormity of having to consistently meet up with producing inmates in court as and when due, coupled with the complications of managing such a high number of pre-trial detainees, amid some form of overcrowding.”
“Another positive intervention is the Correctional Information Management System (CIMS), which has been developed to systematically manage cases of Awaiting Trial Inmates (ATI),” noted Nababa, who received an award for Excellent Leadership and his Principal Staff Officer (PSO), Salisu Mamma, received an award for Excellent Service.
Abdullahi Magaji, who was speaking on his behalf, said: “This has greatly aided in the smooth administration of our custodial centers, given that useful data is readily accessible.”
Conference Convener Rev. Fr. Victor Nyoroh stated that “August 10 is the day officially set aside for prisoners and their supporters” to remember those who passed away too soon in custody while urging stronger global action for better responses to prisoners’ justice.
He claims that the purpose of the conference is to present comprehensive answers that will aid in reforming the criminal justice system to make it more effective.