Governor Dauda Lawal has pledged to grant pardons to inmates convicted of minor offences in Zamfara State.
Lawal made this known on Wednesday in Gusau while hosting the State Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).
The governor said the state government would also settle minor debts that led to the imprisonment of some inmates to facilitate their release.
According to him, many inmates remain in custody because they are unable to pay such debts.
He added that inmates nearing the end of their jail terms, as well as those who have shown genuine remorse, would also benefit from the pardon initiative.
Lawal said the move is part of efforts to ease congestion in correctional centres and improve the administration of justice in the state.
The governor also pledged to upgrade facilities at the Gusau Correctional Centre, including its skills acquisition unit, accommodation, water supply, and mobility for personnel.
He assured that relevant officials would ensure the implementation of the plans to enable correctional officers to perform their duties effectively.
The Zamfara State Controller of the NCoS, Mohammed Juta, commended the governor for the gesture, describing it as a morale booster that would help restore law and order in the state.
Lawal’s administration had also extended support to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) by refurbishing operational vehicles.
The state government is constructing offices and providing accommodation for personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to improve service delivery.