On September 23, 2025, the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf, granted freedom to 35 inmates awaiting trial at two custodial centres in Keffi Local Government Area, Nasarawa State. This intervention, aimed at addressing overcrowding in Nigeria’s correctional facilities, was made possible through a partnership with the Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO).
Among the released individuals, 33 were men and 2 women. One of the beneficiaries, Mohammed Abdullahi, had been imprisoned for over a year without a single court appearance. The move has been lauded as a much-needed step to alleviate the burdens placed on an already overwhelmed correctional system.
Speaking to the press, Justice Baba-Yusuf emphasized the necessity of such interventions, stating, “Today, we have been able to set free 35 people who have no business being here, and that is a huge boost.” He further noted that this visit was part of a series of efforts to ensure the rights of detainees are protected and that individuals are not unjustly kept in custody.
The Chief Judge reaffirmed that this initiative would be a routine process to minimize unnecessary detentions, ensuring a fair and just system for all inmates. “Some of those we’ve set free are individuals who are unwell, have been detained for too long, or have not been charged with a genuine offense. This exercise will continue as part of our routine functions,” Baba-Yusuf remarked.
In addition to the release, the Chief Judge also addressed delays in court proceedings, ensuring that those whose cases had been stalled would receive new hearing dates, with magistrates encouraged to improve case management for swift trials. “Magistrates handling cases in the FCT courts have also been chastised to improve case management strategies,” Baba-Yusuf added.
Cynthia Onyeka, Programs Officer at PPDC, commended the initiative, noting the high rate of pre-trial detentions in Nigeria, which has led to overcrowded custodial centres across the nation. She reiterated that such efforts aim to ensure that the justice system is fair and transparent for all Nigerians, particularly vulnerable groups who cannot afford legal representation. “PPDC supported the exercise by paying fines amounting to N1.5 million to facilitate the release of some inmates, reducing the numbers in the custodial centres,” Onyeka stated.
Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, Abuja Branch, also praised the Chief Judge’s actions, especially for the female inmates who often face difficulties in paying fines or meeting compensatory orders imposed by the courts. Her sentiments were echoed by Sumaila Bulus, Officer in Charge of Keffi Medium Security Custodial Centre, who expressed gratitude for the visit and support. He further highlighted the challenges posed by insufficient transport vehicles, which hinder the movement of inmates to court.
