Controller, Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Lagos State Command, Mr Daramola George, has disclosed how custodial centres in the state currently hold more than 8,000 inmates in facilities meant to accommodate fewer than 4,000.
George revealed this during the 2026 decongestion programme of correctional facilities in the state.
The exercise, which formed part of the ongoing efforts by the state judiciary to decongest correctional centres, also ensured that releases are carried out strictly in accordance with the law and with due regard to society’s safety.
George described the action as a critical step towards justice, compassion and humane treatment of persons in custody as he frowned over persistent overcrowding of centres, stressing that decongestion not only impacts the safety of staff and inmates but also the prospect of successful rehabilitation.
“Today’s event is a testament to our resolve to address these challenges head-on”, George stated.
He further commended Lagos State Government and the judiciary for careful and humane review of cases, noting that the exercise prioritised both the standard of the correctional system and the well-being of inmates, especially those who are critically ill.
“The state government, in collaboration with the judiciary, has demonstrated a commendable commitment to reform and effective management of our correctional system by carefully examining cases while prioritising fairness, mercy and dignity”, George said.
The Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Olanrewaju Alogba, ordered the deportation of two Chadian nationals – Musa Abubakar and Yusuf Aliu, following approval of their release at Ogba Magistrates Court under a special session organised for the release of eligible inmates.
Both men were among 18 inmates released during the exercise across Borstal Home, Adigbe; female correctional centre, as well as medium and maximum security custodial centres in Lagos, after meeting the requirements.
The Chief Judge charged them to seize the opportunity of their freedom to embrace change.
“This is an opportunity for you to change because you will not be this lucky next time if you commit another offence”, he warned.
He specifically directed that Abubakar and Aliu be handed over to the Lagos State Controller of the Nigeria Immigration Service for immediate deportation to Chad, citing the nature of their offences.
Abubakar, who admitted robbing his victim with a knife, said he had been in detention since 2018. Meanwhile, Aliu also admitted to stealing money from his victim but denied using any weapon in the act.
The released inmates comprised four females and 14 males. One of the female beneficiaries, a caterer, Nneka Ogumu, confessed to having diverted N7 million paid to her for a catering service, believing she could use it for a fast business that later failed. She pleaded for mercy on account that she has changed.
Another woman, identified as Favour, charged with stealing N6 million, said it was only N2 million and that the money was spent on taking care of her sick mother. “I am sorry, sir. I won’t do it again”, she pleaded.
Maria Okafor stole jewellery from her employer and has been in custody since 2023.
Faith Monday had also been in custody since 2023 for stealing an item she claimed to have been returned to the police.
Other beneficiaries include Mahmud Mohammed, 36, from Niger State, who had been in custody since 2016 for theft and Abiodun Adegboyega, who told the court he developed tuberculosis while in custody.
A 73-year-old Rabiu Mohammed from Kaduna State, charged with defilement of a seven-year-old boy, was also released after the court considered his circumstances.
Others denied release, included Michael Okoro, charged with armed robbery; John Anam charged with defilement of his neighbour’s five-year-old daughter; Adisa Musa, accused of defiling a six-year-old; Adepoju Olamide, 57, charged with rape of a 13-year-old girl, whose case is still pending before Justice Abiola Sholadoye; Michael Samuel, accused of murder; Itoro Sunday, 50, charged with raping a five-year-old girl and Adewale Durodola, charged with defilement.
Addressing Itoro Sunday, accused of raping a child, Justice Alogba described his offence as serious and requiring no mercy.
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