The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised a serious alarm over the fate of more than 500 inmates currently languishing in Zamfara State correctional centers without trial, calling on judicial authorities to expedite action to ensure timely justice.
Speaking during the launch of the 2026 implementation plan for the National Action Plan on Human Rights, the NHRC State Coordinator, Abdullahi Abubakar, lamented the prolonged detentions and emphasized that the 1999 Nigerian Constitution guarantees the rights of all citizens without discrimination.
Abubakar also stressed the urgent need for widespread public sensitization campaigns and classroom education to teach citizens about their legal rights and the rights of others.
He further noted that the lingering banditry crisis in Zamfara has severely worsened the local humanitarian situation, triggering an increase in human rights abuses, including rape and various forms of gender-based violence.
Adding to the growing concern over the state’s justice system, a recently released ex-convict revealed the grim realities inside the cells during an interview with this medium.
The former inmate alleged that detainees in the Zamfara correctional facilities are subjected to highly unhygienic living conditions, poor feeding, inadequate medication, and a severe lack of clothing and other basic human amenities.
He did, however, note that the Gusau facility where he served his time had a sufficient water supply.
At the time of filing this report, all attempts to contact the Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service in Gusau for an official reaction to these allegations proved abortive.
