Justice Reform for Inmates: AWJAI and Citizens’ Gavel Partner

Justice Reform for Inmates: AWJAI and Citizens’ Gavel Support Inmates at Kuje Custodial Centre

On November 23, 2024, the Asabe Waziri Justice Advocacy Initiative (AWJAI), in partnership with Citizens’ Gavel, visited the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre to provide legal support to marginalised inmates. 

The holding facility, originally designed to house 560 inmates, has become alarmingly overcrowded, holding 1,055 individuals, with 865 awaiting trials.  This stark reality highlights the urgent need for justice reform for inmates, ensuring that they are not left to languish in detention without due process.

During the visit, AWJAI’s legal team engaged with about 50 inmates, listening to their concerns, reviewing their legal situations, and identifying those who urgently needed representation. Many of the individuals we spoke with had experienced repeated court delays, showing how gaps in the justice process often affect people who lack financial resources or legal support.

At AWJAI, our mission is to make justice accessible to everyone, particularly the underserved. Through partnerships like this with Citizens’ Gavel, we provide legal aid, advocate for fair treatment, and work toward lasting improvements that support justice reform for inmates across Nigeria.

Our efforts focus on removing the barriers that prevent vulnerable people from accessing justice, including poverty, lack of legal representation, and procedural delays. By combining direct legal support with public advocacy and strategic partnerships and collaboration, we aim to promote a justice system that is fair, humane, and accountable.

Our commitment to justice reform for inmates and protecting the rights of the vulnerable is steadfast. We will continue advocating for meaningful reforms to create a legal system that is inclusive, fair and accessible to all.