The Commissioner of Police in Kano State, Mr. Usaini Gumel, has revealed that 400 detainees are currently languishing in the Central Correctional Centre, Kurmawa, Kano.
He made this disclosure during the Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kano State branch, with the theme “Turning Point” on Monday in Kano.
Gumel attributed the situation to various factors, including the absence of case files, untraced court records, lack of legal advice, and prolonged criminal trials without bail. He also highlighted the shortage of legal professionals and support staff to provide pro bono services to the large number of arrested and detained individuals.
The commissioner expressed concerns over the vulnerability of detainees without legal representation and the potential impact on their rights within the criminal justice system.
He also noted the lack of basic facilities such as healthcare, hygiene, staff offices, and schools at the Remand Home, Goron Dutse, Kano.
To address these issues, the State Command has launched a Steering Committee to facilitate the implementation of the Police Duty Solicitors Scheme Document.
The committee, comprising criminal justice professionals, has visited correctional facilities and held discussions with stakeholders to obtain useful information on the way forward.
The police command is committed to promoting and protecting human rights through the launch of the Police Duty Solicitor Scheme (PDSS), which aims to provide free legal assistance to detainees and ensure their rights are upheld throughout the criminal justice process.
