Over 3,500 Inmates on Death Row in Nigeria, Says Correctional Service

The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has revealed that more than 3,590 inmates across the country’s custodial centers are currently on death row. Assistant Controller of Corrections and NCoS Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, disclosed this information during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

Umar provided an overview of the inmate population, stating that as of September 3, 2024, there are 84,741 inmates in Nigeria’s custodial centers. This number comprises 82,821 males and 1,920 females. Of these, a significant portion, 57,750 inmates, are Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs), including 56,303 males and 1,447 females.

Breaking down the figures further, Umar explained that there are 21,900 convicted inmates, with 21,519 males and 381 females. In addition, 1,501 inmates are serving life sentences, comprising 1,478 males and 23 females. The number of inmates on death row includes 3,517 males and 73 females, totaling 3,590.

Umar highlighted the challenge posed by the large number of ATPs, which places a strain on the service. However, he assured that the NCoS is actively working to address this issue by ensuring more timely judicial processing for these inmates.

Thanks to the efforts of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the NCoS successfully reduced the inmate population by releasing 4,063 individuals who had the option to pay fines and/or compensation. Additionally, the Service is tackling custodial congestion through various measures, including constructing new facilities, expanding community sentencing, improving court logistics, and implementing other decongestion strategies.

The NCoS has also focused on enhancing security within custodial facilities, preventing external threats, and maintaining stability and security inside the centers. Umar reported that these efforts have resulted in a secure environment, with no incidents of internal unrest.

Furthermore, the Service has made significant strides in the treatment and care of inmates, particularly in areas of personal reformation, rehabilitation programs, and successful reintegration into society. Notably, the partnership between the NCoS and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has yielded positive results, with a considerable number of inmates enrolled in various academic programs while serving their sentences.

As of August 31, 2024, a total of 1,282 inmates were enrolled in NOUN’s special study centers. This includes 1,215 inmates pursuing Bachelor of Science degrees, 62 inmates studying for Postgraduate Diplomas and Master’s degrees, and five inmates working towards Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, three of whom are currently writing their thesis.

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