Niger gov pays fines to free 80 inmates from correctional facilities…

Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, yesterday, approved payment of fines for the discharge of 80 inmates from various correctional facilities in the state, as part of activities marking Democracy Day.

According to a statement signed by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, the payment was in line with the governor’s prerogative of mercy, as guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution.

Usman urged the inmates to be law-abiding, use their freedom for good ventures, and shun acts that could lead them back to incarceration.

He said payment of the fines was considered based on recommendation of the state advisory council, which considered old age, health condition and good behaviour.