The Commissioner of Police in Kano State, Usaini Gumel, has confirmed that 400 detainees were languishing in the Central Correctional Centre, Kurmawa, in Kano.
Mr Gumel confirmed this on Monday during the Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kano State branch, with the theme “Turning Point.”
The CP said most of the detainees had no case files, untraced court records, an absence of a case diary, non-issuance of legal advice, and prolonged criminal trials without bail.
He also highlighted the shortage of legal professionals and support staff to provide pro bono legal services to many arrested and detained individuals and members of the force.
“There is generally a lack of effective coordination among key stakeholders, especially correctional facilities and legal aid services, leading to gaps in service delivery and support,” he said.
The commissioner expressed concerns over the vulnerability of detainees without legal representation and the potential impact on their rights within the criminal justice system.
“There is a lack of basic facilities such as healthcare, routine hygiene, staff offices, and schools at the Remand Home, Goron Dutse, Kano.
“Due to this, the state command launched a steering committee to facilitate the implementation of the innovative provisions contained in the Police Duty Solicitors Scheme Document.
“The committee, comprised of criminal justice professionals, has visited correctional facilities and held constructive discussions with stakeholders to obtain useful information on the way forward,” he said.
Mr Gumel said the state police command is committed to promoting and protecting human rights by launching the Police Duty Solicitor Scheme (PDSS) to provide free legal assistance to detainees and ensure their rights are upheld and protected throughout the criminal justice processes.
(NAN)
