13 Inmates Regain Freedom In Keffi After NGO Pays Court Fines

Thirteen inmates at the New Keffi Medium Security Custodial Centre in Nasarawa State have regained their freedom after a non-governmental organisation paid the fines and compensation imposed by the courts.

The intervention was carried out by the Sunday and Omoikhere Orianran Foundation (SOOF), which offset the financial penalties that had kept the inmates in custody.

The officer-in-charge of the facility, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Samaila Bulus, confirmed the development, noting that such interventions contribute to ongoing efforts to decongest custodial centres.

Across Nigeria, correctional facilities have long struggled with overcrowding, driven largely by a high number of awaiting-trial inmates, slow judicial processes, and the inability of some convicts to meet bail conditions or pay court-imposed fines.

Many custodial centres currently operate far beyond their designed capacity, placing pressure on infrastructure, sanitation, and healthcare services.

In addition to congestion, rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns over poor living conditions, limited access to medical care, and inadequate rehabilitation resources in several facilities nationwide.

Bulus said the Nigerian Correctional Service had continued to pursue reforms through vocational training, education, and behavioural correction programmes, although challenges persist due to limited resources and the growing inmate population.

The founder of the foundation, Dr. (Mrs.) Rose Orianran-Anthony, said the intervention was aimed at supporting the reintegration of inmates who were unable to meet financial obligations imposed by the courts.

According to her, a significant number of inmates remain in custody solely because they cannot afford fines, despite having fulfilled other aspects of their sentences.

She added that the foundation would provide limited post-release support to aid reintegration.

LEADERSHIP reports that the foundation also donated food items and medical supplies to the custodial centre during the visit.