Why we moved Kano Islamic cleric sentenced to death to Abuja – NCoS

The Nigerian Correctional Service Kano State Command has clarified that the recent transfer of an inmate, Malam Abduljabbar Nasiru Kabara from the Kurmawa Custodial Centre in Kano to the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja is routine administrative procedure carried out in line with the Service’s operational guidelines.

A statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Musbahu Lawan on Wednesday further explained that the transfer, which took place on Tuesday, was made in accordance with the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019.

According to the statement, such transfers are often influenced by factors such as security considerations, inmate classification, facility capacity, and rehabilitation needs.

“The public is hereby assured that the welfare and legal entitlements of Malam Abduljabbar remain fully protected under the law. The transfer does not in any way affect his legal status, rights of appeal, or access to legal representation,” the statement said.

Recall that Kabara, an Islamic cleric, was convicted by a Kano State High Court in December 2022 for blasphemy and sentenced to death by hanging.

He has since been in custody while pursuing his appeal against the judgment.

The transfer of Kabara to Kuje Custodial Centre has generated a lot of concern among Kano residents, who were asking questions as to what prompted the transfer.