Kaduna gifts N9.7m to 97 freed inmates

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has initiated the disbursement of N100,000 each to 97 former inmates who were recently granted clemency. This financial support is a key component of the state government's efforts to aid their reintegration into society and mitigate the risk of them returning to criminal activities.

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By paying the fine of the inmates and giving them financial assistance, this will encourage them to go and do what they are supposed to do. They are now set to be reintegrated into the society.

The distribution took place at the Kaduna Medium Security Custodial Centre, marking the final phase of the governor's commitment to supporting these individuals. The inmates were released on June 12, coinciding with the commemoration of Democracy Day, under the governor's constitutional prerogative of mercy. The state government also covered the fines for some beneficiaries, facilitating their immediate release.

Dalhatu Ibrahim, the officer in charge of the custodial center, lauded the initiative as a significant boost to correctional rehabilitation. He stated that the financial assistance would empower the ex-inmates to rebuild their lives and successfully reintegrate into the community. "By paying the fine of the inmates and giving them financial assistance, this will encourage them to go and do what they are supposed to do. They are now set to be reintegrated into the society," Ibrahim remarked.

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The governor’s gesture will help us in achieving the reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of the ex-inmates.

Ibrahim further commended Governor Sani's gesture, noting its alignment with the core mandate of the correctional system to foster reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration. He advised the beneficiaries to use the funds wisely, suggesting they invest in small businesses to establish a fresh start.

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We advise them to use the money as working capital to start a business or begin life afresh.

Alhaji Mohammed Suleiman, the Governor's Senior Special Assistant on Protocol, confirmed that the payment represented the final phase of the clemency program. He conveyed the Governor's warning against any relapse into crime, urging the beneficiaries to embrace their roles as law-abiding citizens. One beneficiary, Chuks Solomon, expressed deep gratitude, viewing the financial aid as a crucial opportunity to begin anew. Another recipient, Abubakar Umar, echoed these sentiments, describing the intervention as a source of renewed hope.

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We very much appreciate what he has done for us. We thank him for giving us the money because some of us will use it as capital to start a business.