Governor Radda Breaks Silence, Suspends Top Officials After Horrific Inmate Torture Exposed

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has ordered the immediate suspension of senior staff at the Babbar Ruga Reformatory Centre following disturbing revelations of torture and abuse that led to the amputation of an inmate’s left hand.

This decisive move came after a fact-finding committee submitted its report on the brutal treatment of Usman Musa, an inmate whose injuries required life-altering medical intervention.

A statement released Friday night by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abdullahi Faskari, confirmed the suspension of Principal Abdulzahir Abubakar, Vice Principal Bala Abubakar, and porter Yunusa Yusuf over their alleged roles in the abuse. Additionally, Murtala Suleiman, a casual staff member, has been dismissed outright.

According to the SSG’s Chief Press Secretary, Abdullahi Yar’adua, the governor’s action underscores the state’s zero-tolerance stance on human rights violations and its ongoing commitment to reform and accountability within public institutions.

“Katsina State Government is fully committed to protecting the dignity and rights of every citizen. This move reinforces our dedication to justice and systemic change,” the statement emphasized.

In a compassionate response, Governor Radda approved ₦970,000 for the inmate’s immediate medical needs and an additional ₦35 million for the provision of a sensor-enabled prosthetic hand to assist in his recovery and rehabilitation.

“Our goal is not only to hold the perpetrators accountable but to restore hope and dignity to the victim,” Governor Radda affirmed.

He has also endorsed major reform proposals recommended by the investigation panel, including the upgrade of the reformatory centre to international standards. The implementation will be overseen by Alhaji Usman Isiyaku, the Special Adviser on Public Administration and Service Reforms, to ensure lasting transformation and improved inmate welfare.