Civil Society Organizations working on prison reforms have applauded the Federal Government of Nigeria for the move to free 30 percent of the awaiting trial inmates and the recommendation of a re-integration process.
The CSOs which include; Headfort Foundation, Center for Legal Support and Inmate Rehabilitation, Citizens’ Gavel Foundation for Social Justice, Connect Hub NG, and Hope Behind Bars Africa, made the commendation in a joint press release.
The commendation was made following the announcement by the Honorable Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, that at least 30% of inmates from correctional centres would be freed.
The CSO groups after commending the FG noted that it is important that a work plan is developed to enhance the proper reintegration of pre-trial inmates into society.
In the statement released by the CSOs, they urged the federal government to engage all stakeholders in the decongestion process and prioritise the release of petty offenders.
“Consider pre-trial inmates who have spent more than the statutory punishment for the offence, including first-time offenders charged with minor offences; for sustainability, the government must work to implement restorative justice, community service, and other diversionary measures as provided by our legal framework.
“Create a plan for the proper re-integration and re-entry of the released people back into society,” the groups added.