From Daniel Attah, Kaduna
The Kaduna Governor, Senator Uba Sani, on Tuesday, granted pardon to 110 convicts from the Nigerian Correctional Centre in the state in commemoration of the June 12, Democracy day.
Governor Sani who visited the Nigerian Correctional Centre in the state capital, admonished the released convicts to reform and acquire skills so as to become useful members of society.
Sani also decried the high rate of inmates awaiting trial and those serving, noting that the centre were overstretched with 3000 inmates exceeding the initial capacity of 500 and the upgraded capacity of 1,100 respectively.
The pardoned convicts include 22 released under the prerogative of mercy, while 88 others were convicted with options of fine or compensation to victims.
According to the governor, no society could exist and endure without law and order while admonishing that citizens must at all times desist from indulging in criminal activities and obey constituted authorities.
He noted that “out of the 110 convicts released were 22 convicts who would be released on pardon under the prerogative of mercy powers conferred on me by Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“The remaining 88 convicts consist of those who had been convicted with option of fine ranging from N10,000:00 and above, while others have compensation to pay to their victims ranging from N150,000:00 and above and in some cases, we have those with both fines and compensation elements.
“I came to this Custodial Center today with mixed feelings. We are celebrating our Democracy Day; a day set aside to pay tribute to those who made sacrifices so that we can live in freedom.
“I am also here to see our brothers and sisters who found themselves on the wrong side of the law.
“I am releasing a total number of 110 convicts today to mark the celebration of our 1 year in office and more importantly, to celebrate the 2024 June 12, Democracy Day.
“I have been so disturbed with the high rate of inmates either awaiting trials or those whose trial have begun but still on-going, while those who have been convicted with fine or option of fine also makes the number.
“I urge all of you who are about to be released to reciprocate our gesture by been of good character henceforth. Try and acquire one or two skills.
The governor also appreciated the efforts of the Correctional Service officers in maintaining peace in the custodial centers.
