Thirty-seven inmates at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Goron Dutse, Kano, were released on medical grounds by the Chief Judge of Kano State, Justice Dije Abdu Aboki, as part of efforts to decongest the state’s custodial centers.

The inmates were freed due to prolonged detention without trial and poor health conditions.

Addressing the released inmates, Justice Aboki urged them to reflect on their past and avoid actions that could lead to their re-incarceration.

“I hope this opportunity given to you today will be the turning point in your lives. Be of good behavior and stay away from any misconduct that may return you to custody,” she said.

The Chief Judge also handed over ₦10,000 to each of the released inmates as transport fare to ease their return to society.

The release was done in the presence of various legal officials. Among them was the Attorney General of the state, represented by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), as well as representatives from the Legal Aid Council (LAC) and the Chief Registrar of the High Court of Kano State.

The Controller of Corrections for Kano State Command, Ado Inuwa, expressed his gratitude to Justice Aboki for her decision.

“We are appreciative of the Chief Judge’s intervention in decongesting the prison and her kind gesture towards these inmates who have suffered from long stays without trial and health complications,” he said.