Katsina suspends three officials over inmate torture

The Katsina State Government has suspended three top officials of the Babbar Ruga Reformatory Centre over the alleged torture and mishandling of an inmate, Usman Musa, which led to the amputation of his left hand and serious injury to his right hand.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda approved the immediate suspension of the Centre’s Principal, Abdulzahir Abubakar, Vice Principal, Bala Abubakar, and a porter, Yunusa Yusuf, following the findings of a government-appointed investigative committee.

According to a statement signed by Abdullahi Yar’Adua, Chief Press Secretary to the Secretary to the State Government, a casual staff member, Murtala Suleiman, was also dismissed for his role in the incident.

The governor also approved ₦970,000 to cover the victim’s medical expenses and ₦35 million for the purchase of a sensor-enabled prosthetic hand to aid his recovery and reintegration.

In a move to prevent further human rights abuses, Radda endorsed the committee’s recommendations to upgrade the Reformatory Centre to align with international correctional standards.

The Special Adviser on Public Administration and Service Reforms, Alhaji Usman Isiyaku, who chaired the committee, will also oversee the implementation of the reforms.

The state government reiterated its commitment to accountability, human rights, and comprehensive institutional reforms.