Abubakar Umar, spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), announced on Friday that no executive governors have signed death warrants for inmates on death row in recent times.
The last execution was carried out in Edo State in 2016 by former Governor Adam Oshiomole. As of April 15, 2024, 3,504 inmates remain on death row, including 73 females and 3,431 males.
Umar attributed the moratorium to advocacies by human rights groups and civil society organizations, which have campaigned for the abolition of capital punishment worldwide.
“Human rights groups are advocating for the abolishment of the execution of death sentences around the world, and Nigeria is not an exception,” said Umar.
While the death penalty remains in Nigeria’s criminal justice system, executions cannot proceed without the signing of death warrants by executive governors.
Despite the moratorium, NCoS continues to offer rehabilitation and reformatory programs to inmates on death row, including skill empowerment and academic opportunities.
“Some inmates change their ways and become well-behaved and industrious,” said Umar. “We recommend those who meet this criteria for clemency or pardon.” CONTINUE READING
Leave a Reply