The Acting Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, has initiated a nationwide compilation of inmates eligible for a presidential pardon under President Bola Tinubu’s clemency initiative.
The clemency program aims to address prison overcrowding and consider humanitarian factors for inmates who meet specific criteria.
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Nwakuche, who assumed office on December 16, 2024, following the retirement of Haliru Nababa, issued the directive in a memo dated January 17, 2025, with reference number NCoS 848/C. I/VOL. 1/288.
The memo, titled “Re: Request For List Of Prisoners/Inmates Eligible For Presidential Pardon/Clemency Nation-Wide”, was sent to all state Controllers of Corrections and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commands.
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The memo outlined key factors for determining inmate eligibility:
- Old Age: Inmates aged 60 years and above.
- Ill Health: Conditions likely to lead to death.
- Young Persons: Inmates aged 16 years and below.
- Long-Term Convicts: Those who have served 10 years or more with a good conduct record.
- Long Awaiting Trial Persons: Individuals awaiting trial for 10 years or more.
- Short-Term Convicts: Convicts serving 3 years or more but with less than 6 months remaining.
- Awaiting Trial for Minor Offences: Inmates held for over 3 years for minor offences.
- Overstay of Trial Duration: Awaiting trial persons who have been in custody longer than the sentence they would have received.
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The directive clarified that the clemency applies to inmates convicted or awaiting trial for federal offences and excludes foreign prisoners deported to Nigeria.
The nationwide clemency initiative is expected to provide relief to Nigeria’s overpopulated correctional facilities while ensuring that humanitarian considerations are prioritized.
Sylvester Nwakuche’s proactive leadership signals a renewed focus on prison reforms and inmate welfare under President Tinubu’s administration.
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