In her visit to correctional centers across Bauchi State, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar, the Chief Judge, cautioned chief magistrates and Shari’a Court judges against the unjust remand of debtors in efforts to recover debts. She emphasized the need to avoid unnecessary incarceration for debt-related issues.
The purpose of her quarterly review was not only to expedite the judicial process by releasing awaiting trial inmates but also to alleviate congestion in the correctional facilities.
Justice Umar stressed the importance of mediation and amicable settlements in resolving disputes related to debts and marriage, highlighting that imprisonment is not a progressive solution to such issues.
She also reminded the judges and magistrates not to misuse their authority by allowing litigants to intimidate debtors through legal proceedings.
Exemplifying her point, she questioned the logic of detaining debtors, especially female individuals, for minimal sums like 30k, pointing out that it not only hinders debt recovery but also places a burden on the correctional system.
Moreover, Justice Umar underscored the financial responsibility of officials for feeding remanded individuals, highlighting that the government cannot bear this cost indefinitely.
During her visit, the Chief Judge facilitated the release of 22 awaiting trial inmates from different correctional centers in the state, urging them to seek reconciliation with their families and engage in lawful activities to sustain themselves.