Zamafara Gov, Dauda Lawal Pardons 31 Inmates, Provides Them With Financial Support

Dauda Lawal, Zamfara State Governor has released a total of 31 inmates who are serving their term at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Gusau, the state capital.

The governor on Friday visited the Gusau Medium Custodial Centre, where he signed to pardon the inmates by Nigeria’s constitution.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the decision was made after a careful investigation of the inmates’ records.

He made it known that the Constitution allows governors to reduce sentences and pardon inmates.

In his remarks at the event, Governor Lawal said inmates convicted of various crimes were pardoned to encourage their transformation into law-abiding citizens.

“Today, I am exercising the power granted by Section 212(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to show mercy to inmates, which aims to alleviate imprisonment’s hardships and psychological distress.

“The decision was made after thoroughly examining the prisoners’ records, which confirmed their genuine remorse. Furthermore, I have approved a gift of N50,000 to each pardoned inmate to support their reintegration into society.

“This is an effort by my administration to reduce the overcrowding in correctional centers, especially at this time when we are making arrests of suspected bandits and informants.”

After inspecting the facility, Governor Lawal promised to provide all necessary assistance for the Gusau Correctional Center.

Earlier, the Comptroller of Corrections, Zamfara Command, Umar Galadima, praised Governor Lawal for his visit and decision to grant mercy to inmates.