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In the past five years, the National Correctional Services (NCoS) has issued over 64,000 non-incarceration sentences to inmates under its supervision.

Alleged reforms aim towards reintegrating offenders and alleviating prison overpopulation by implementing penalties without detention.

Over the past five years, the National Corrections Service has handed out non-imprisonment...
Over the past five years, the National Corrections Service has handed out non-imprisonment sentences to more than 64,000 inmates.

In the past five years, the National Correctional Services (NCoS) has issued over 64,000 non-incarceration sentences to inmates under its supervision.

In a recent address, Nandang, a notable speaker, has proposed the possibility of initiating the process of restorative justice for inmates on death row. This call comes as part of a broader approach to rehabilitate offenders and reduce prison overcrowding, as outlined in the non-custodial measures established under the NCoS Act of 2019.

These measures, designed to provide punishments that do not involve incarceration, have already seen some success. Between January and June 2025, 10,406 inmates, including 9,207 men and 1,199 women, received similar sentences. However, the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of these measures remain uncertain without stronger institutional support.

Despite the challenges that persist, such as inadequate funding, limited staffing, and weak judicial collaboration, Nandang remains optimistic. He advocates for collaboration with traditional institutions, vigilante groups, and non-state actors to bridge these implementation gaps.

Nandang's approach to rehabilitation does not necessarily involve removing inmates from custodial centres. Instead, he focuses on restoring relationships, aiming to provide offenders with the tools they need to reintegrate into society and make amends for their actions.

While the possibility of starting the process of restorative justice for inmates on death row remains a topic of debate, Nandang's call for action serves as a reminder of the importance of rehabilitation and the potential for change. As the implementation of these non-custodial measures continues, it is hoped that more progress will be made towards a more restorative and effective justice system.

However, it is important to note that no new information is currently available about the Katsina senator-elect, Yar'Adua, and his campaign promises, or about the number of inmates facing challenges in the implementation of these non-custodial sentences. As more information becomes available, it will be crucial to evaluate the impact of these measures and continue to strive for a more just and effective justice system.

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