Former Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, has secured the release of 59 inmates with minor offences in the Kurmawa and Gorondutse Correctional Centres in Kano State.

The Emir paid their fines amounting to N17m through his foundation, Muhammadu Sanusi II Foundation.

The foundation’s coordinator, Mujitaba Abba, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Kano on Wednesday.

He disclosed that Sanusi gave permission to secure the release of 59 of the prisoners after the payment of N16, 820,370 in fines and restitution.

Abba explained that at the Kurmawa Correctional Centre, the Emir had paid the fines of 26 inmates amounting to N4, 466,500.

He added that at Gorondutse facility, 33 inmates were released after their fines, amounting to N11, 380,770 was paid.

“We have discovered that a lot of the inmates are there on issues of debts and other minor cases. The cases are mostly civil.

“So, His Royal Highness has settled the restitution and fines, amounting to N16, 820, 370,” he said.

According to him, some inmates were victims of circumstances, while some had indeed committed the offence, pointing out that they were cautioned against committing the offense again.

He called on the beneficiaries to be of good character and stay away from any illegal acts or crimes that would bring them back to the correctional facilities.

He said the foundation had been carrying out similar gestures for many years and called on wealthy individuals to assist the poor and less privileged in the society.