ECOWAS Court orders prison decongestion, an end to prolonged detention without trial in Nigeria

Thenationonlineng | 24-05-2026 08:13pm |

The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has mandated the Nigerian government to implement measures for the decongestion of its prisons and to conduct periodic reviews aimed at addressing the issue of prolonged detention without trial. Current statistics indicate that out of an estimated inmate population of 79,237 in Nigeria, 52,519 individuals are awaiting trial. The court's ruling emphasizes the need for urgent reforms to ensure that inmates are not held indefinitely without due process. This decision reflects ongoing concerns regarding the human rights situation within the Nigerian correctional system.

Stay Updated with the Latest News!

Don't miss out on breaking stories and in-depth articles.