Taraba moves to decongest Jalingo Custodial Centre, considers amnesty for deserving inmates

The Taraba State Government is taking steps to alleviate overcrowding at Jalingo Medium Security Custodial Centre, which currently houses over 500 inmates despite being designed for 250. The situation arose due to a reported capacity of 250 inmates, but now exceeds 500, straining the facility's resources and raising concerns over inmate welfare.

A delegation, including government officials, members of the Nigeria Bar Association and the Legal Aid Council, visited the centre to assess the situation and evaluate potential solutions. Among the challenges identified were overcrowding, inadequate facilities, and delays in judicial proceedings. State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Yakubu Maikasuwa (SAN), stressed the need for the accelerated determination of cases, regular reviews of pending cases, and the adoption of non-custodial measures to minimize the inmate population.

He also recommended that inmates demonstrating good conduct, vocational skills, or rehabilitation be considered for release under the state’s prerogative of mercy. The Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, tasked with reviewing eligible inmates, will meet soon to make recommendations. The NBA’s Chairman, David Philemon, noted that the Prison Decongestion Committee is working to reduce the inmate population and address legal issues leading to prolonged detention.

Stakeholders emphasized that sustained judicial intervention and improved infrastructure are essential to permanently alleviate congestion at Jalingo Custodial Centre.