FG’s Mass Pardon: 4,000 Prisoners Freed, N1bn Saved on Feeding

As part of decongestion measures, the Federal Government has released nearly 4,000 prisoners from correctional facilities, saving N1 billion in inmate food expenses.

This is mentioned in a statement by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo while speaking at the 5th Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja, Thursday.

Tunji-Ojo said the campaign quickly released a large number of inmates who had been imprisoned for infractions.

He said, “We decongested our correctional centres by five per cent last year,” Tunji-Ojo explained.

“Last year, just over 4,000 inmates were released in one day. All we did was conduct a detailed analysis and found that many inmates were there due to petty fines. This project allowed us to release over 4,082 inmates, saving the government N1bn year in feeding costs.”

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Additionally, he disclosed that more than 2,125 illicit refineries and oil dumps nationwide were demolished in 2024 by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad.

Tunji-Ojo emphasised that almost 700 people were detained in relation to these criminal actions and that roughly 205 trucks transporting unlawfully refined petroleum products were impounded.

Along with 345 convictions, the team has 187 more cases pending in court.

He said, “In 2024, the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad destroyed over 2,125 illegal refineries and oil dumps.

“Close to 205 trucks conveying illegally refined petroleum products have been impounded while more than 700 suspects and accomplices have been arrested.

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“Notably, the corps have secured over 345 convictions while about 187 cases are still ongoing in the law court.”