The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has revealed that out of the total 75,436 inmates in custody across the country, a staggering 52,446 are awaiting trial, causing severe strain on the correctional facilities.

Gimba Dumbulwa, an assistant controller general of the service, addressed the issue on Wednesday, expressing concern over the extended period of detention for some inmates, with some awaiting trial for more than 10 years.

He further highlighted that over 2,000 individuals have been confined for over a decade without trial, while more than 5,000 inmates have yet to receive the opportunity for trial.

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Dumbulwa attributed this problem to the nation’s justice system, stating that the lack of prompt dispensation of justice has contributed to congestion in the custodial centers.

Uju Agomoh, the executive director of prisoners rehabilitation and welfare action (PRAWA), emphasized the urgent need for an effective justice system and raised the issue of providing appropriate rehabilitation and resettlement programs for the large number of unconvicted inmates.

Solutions and improved functioning of relevant agencies were called for to address this pressing matter.