Nigerian Correctional Service Reports 3,688 Death Row Inmates

The Nigerian Correctional Service reports 3,688 inmates on death row, an increase of 2.73 percent since September 2024. Acting Controller General Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche emphasizes the need for collaboration among various security agencies to expedite justice and address the backlog of awaiting trials. The Senate Committee on Interior will evaluate his performance as part of its review process.

The Acting Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche, reported to the Senate that there are currently 3,688 inmates on death row in Nigeria, reflecting an increase from 3,590 in September 2024. This increase of 2.73 percent is attributed to the addition of 98 new inmates within six months. Nwakuche emphasized the urgency for collaboration with various security agencies to address the swift execution of justice in the country.

During his screening by the Senate Committee on Interior, chaired by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Mr. Nwakuche highlighted the significant challenge posed by the rising number of death row inmates, particularly the unwillingness of state governors to sign execution warrants. He noted that commuting death sentences to life imprisonment would alleviate congestion in urban facilities, allowing better distribution of inmates to less crowded rural correctional centres.

Mr. Nwakuche reiterated the necessity of strategic collaboration with the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC). Such partnerships are essential to address the backlog of awaiting trials and promote efficient correctional practices across the nation.

He expressed concern regarding the slow pace of the justice system, citing cases where inmates have remained in custody for extended periods without resolution. Nwakuche advocated for the release of inmates who have overstayed unnecessarily in correctional facilities due to procedural delays. The collaboration across enforcement and prosecuting bodies is crucial to support timely justice and mitigate prison overcrowding.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, indicated that the committee would prepare a report based on the interviews conducted during Nwakuche’s screening, intending to provide insights into the future management of Nigeria’s correctional services.

The report from Acting Controller General Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche highlights critical concerns regarding the increasing number of death row inmates in Nigeria and the major role governors play in the ongoing delays of executions. The collaborative approach between the NCoS and various security agencies is vital to streamline justice processes and alleviate prison overcrowding. Additionally, addressing the backlog of awaiting trials remains pivotal to reforming the correctional system effectively.

Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com