The Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf, has ordered the release of 35 inmates awaiting trial at two custodial centres in Keffi Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, in a move aimed at decongesting the facilities.
The release, facilitated by the Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC), a non-governmental organization, took place during the Chief Judge’s visit to the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Keffi on Tuesday. The freed inmates comprised 33 males and 2 females, including Mohammed Abdullahi, who spent a year in custody without a single court appearance.
Speaking to reporters after the exercise, Justice Baba-Yusuf emphasized the importance of ensuring that no individual is detained unnecessarily. “Today, we have freed 35 people who had no business being here. This is a significant step forward,” he stated.
He affirmed that such visits and interventions would be routine to uphold the rights of citizens and prevent unjust detentions. “Some released inmates were ill, others have been here for an unreasonably long time, and some were not charged with any legitimate offense. We will continue to ensure justice is served promptly,” he added.
The Chief Judge also assured that inmates facing case delays have been given new court dates. He directed magistrates overseeing cases in FCT courts to improve case management and expedite trials. “We have tasked the Director in charge of magistrates to conduct oversight and ensure smooth court proceedings,” he said.
Cynthia Onyeka, Programs Officer at the PPDC, praised the Chief Judge’s commitment to decongesting custodial centres, highlighting the nationwide challenge of prolonged pretrial detention in Nigeria. She noted that the NGO supported the exercise by paying fines totaling ₦1.5 million to facilitate inmate releases, emphasizing the need for fair and transparent justice accessible to vulnerable populations.
Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (Abuja Branch), also expressed gratitude for the Chief Judge’s mercy and lauded NGOs for regularly paying fines to secure the release of inmates, particularly women unable to afford legal costs.
Sumaila Bulus, Officer in Charge of the Keffi Medium Security Custodial Centre, thanked the Chief Judge for the visit and inmate releases, noting that the facility currently houses 667 inmates. He appealed for increased logistical support, especially additional vehicles to transport inmates to court appearances, as the current two vehicles are insufficient.
This intervention follows a recent security breach at the Keffi custodial centre on August 12, 2025, when sixteen inmates escaped after overpowering staff. Five officers were injured, with two in serious condition. Seven escapees have been recaptured, while efforts continue to locate the remaining nine, according to the Nigerian Correctional Service spokesperson, Umar Abubakar.
