Parole: A Key Component For Prison Decongestion, Says CLEEN Foundation
Parole is a crucial part of Nigeria’s judicial system, aimed at rehabilitating offenders and reintegrating them into society as law-abiding citizens. This assertion was made by the Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, Gad Peter, during the opening of a two-day performance appraisal workshop on the legal framework of parole and the administration of criminal justice law in Nigeria, held in Bauchi.
Peter emphasized the need for a robust legal framework and effective administration of parole within the Administration of Criminal Justice Law to help decongest custodial centers across the country. “Parole reflects a balance between punitive measures and the need for rehabilitation, recognizing that the potential for reform and positive change exists within every individual,” he stated.
He highlighted that the administration of justice is the cornerstone of any society that upholds the rule of law, and collective efforts are essential to ensure its robustness and effectiveness. “This workshop provides an invaluable platform for us to engage in critical discussions, share insights, and evaluate the current state of our legal framework on parole and its broader implications on criminal justice administration in Nigeria,” Peter added.
Speaking on the mechanics of the parole system, CLEEN Foundation’s Finance Officer, Chijioke Kaja, noted that parole is a new correctional measure in Nigeria’s penal system. Before 2015, inmates could only be released before the end of their imprisonment term if they were granted a pardon by the Governor or the President. However, this changed with the implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) of 2015, which empowers courts to release inmates on parole upon the recommendation of the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Correctional Service.
Kaja explained that the ACJA outlines specific conditions that must be met before an inmate can be recommended for parole. These conditions include good behavior, serving at least one-third of their term if sentenced to a minimum of 15 years imprisonment, or life imprisonment.
The workshop was attended by representatives from the Nigeria Police Force, Correctional Service, Nigeria Bar Association, Media, Nigeria Legal Aid Council, Bauchi State Ministry of Justice, Immigration Service, lawyers, and various Civil Society Organizations, including the International Society of Zaar Intellectuals (ISOZI), among others.
