NCoS Reveals Over 3,500 Inmates On Death Row In Nigeria

NCoS Reveals Over 3,500 Inmates On Death Row In Nigeria

The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has disclosed that at least 3,590 inmates across custodial centers in the country are on death row.

This information was shared by the NCoS Public Relations Officer, Assistant Controller of Corrections, Abubakar Umar, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in Abuja.

Mr. Umar reported that as of September 3, 2024, the total inmate population across the country stood at 84,741, including 82,821 males and 1,920 females.

He provided further details, stating that 57,750 of these inmates are Awaiting Trial Inmates (ATIs), with 56,303 males and 1,447 females in this category. Convicted inmates account for 21,900, with 21,519 males and 381 females. Lifers total 1,501, including 1,478 males and 23 females. The total number of Inmates on Death Row (IDR) comprises 3,517 males and 73 females, making a total of 3,590.

Mr. Umar highlighted the challenges posed by the high number of Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs) in custody but assured that the Service is taking measures to address the issue. He emphasized the importance of timely judicial processing for ATPs.

Thanks to initiatives supported by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the inmate population has been reduced, with 4,063 individuals released after paying fines or compensation. The Service is also addressing custodial congestion through the construction of new facilities, expanding community sentencing, improving court logistics, and implementing decongestion measures.

Mr. Umar also noted that the Service has strengthened security in custodial facilities, ensuring a stable environment without incidents of internal unrest. He mentioned significant improvements in inmate care, particularly in reformation and rehabilitation programs, leading to successful reintegration into society.

In addition, the partnership between the NCoS and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has produced positive outcomes, with a growing number of inmates enrolled in academic programs. As of August 31, 2024, 1,282 inmates were enrolled in NOUN’s special study center. This includes 1,215 pursuing Bachelor of Science degrees, 62 enrolled in Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) and Master’s programs, and eight pursuing Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, three of whom are currently writing their theses.