By: Segun Ojumu
Lafia, Nigeria – The governor of Nigeria’s Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, has highlighted the problem of severe congestion at the Keffi Medium Security Correctional Centre, a day after 16 inmates escaped.
Governor Sule visited the facility on Wednesday and noted that a large number of inmates were awaiting trial for cases in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which contributes to overcrowding. He has pledged to work with FCT officials to fast-track trials and help decongest the prison.
The governor’s visit came after the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) confirmed that 16 inmates had escaped, with seven now recaptured. The NCoS has launched a manhunt for the remaining nine.
In a move to improve conditions, Governor Sule announced a donation of 500 mattresses and one million naira for the upkeep of the inmates, many of whom he observed were sleeping on the floor. He stated that while security is important, addressing the underlying issues of congestion and inmate welfare is key to preventing future incidents.
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