Writing By Daniel Karlmax; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
The Kaduna State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has urged the public to disregard a recent online publication titled “Rotting in Jail Without Trial: Kaduna’s Correctional Service Fails to Transport Detainees to Court.”
In a statement issued to newsmen, the Public Relations Officer of the Kaduna Command, Superintendent of Corrections Emmanuel Zaki, described the report as false and misleading, aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the Service.
SP Zaki clarifies that the inmate referenced in the report, Emmanuel Musa, was remanded in custody on March 5, 2024—not six years ago, as falsely claimed.
According to the statement, Musa is currently being held for the offence of aiding and abetting kidnapping, which is a capital offence under the jurisdiction of a High Court.
Zaki explains that the case is presently before a Chief Magistrate Court, pending legal advice from the Ministry of Justice for possible transfer to the appropriate High Court.
He further states that Emmanuel Musa has been taken to court as required since his remand and that the Command has never defaulted in its responsibility to present him in court.
“The claims that inmates are being denied access to court proceedings are entirely baseless and unfounded,” he said.
The Kaduna State Command of the NCoS reiterated its commitment to upholding the highest standards as outlined in the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019.
“Members of the public are therefore urged to disregard the misleading report and continue supporting the Service’s efforts in reforming and rehabilitating offenders for successful reintegration into society,” SP Zaki concluded.
Daniel Karlmax.
