Katsina Governor Suspends Reformatory Officials Over Torture Incident, Approves Medical Support for Victim
The Katsina State Government has taken disciplinary action against key officials of the Babbar Ruga Reformatory Centre following the brutal mistreatment of an inmate, Usman Musa, which resulted in the amputation of his left hand and serious injury to the right.
Governor Dikko Radda approved the immediate suspension of the centre’s head, Abdulzahir Abubakar, alongside Vice Principal Bala Abubakar and porter Yunusa Yusuf Their suspension followed the findings of an investigative committee that held them accountable for the inhumane act.
Additionally, the appointment of Murtala Suleiman, a casual staff member implicated in the incident, was terminated with immediate effect.
The decision was announced in a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Faskari, late Friday.
In a move to aid Mr. Musa’s recovery, Governor Radda approved a total of ₦970,000 to cover his immediate medical expenses. He also authorized the release of ₦35 million for the procurement of a sensor-enabled prosthetic hand to support the victim’s rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Beyond addressing the specific case, the governor accepted a series of recommendations to overhaul operations at the reformatory. These include a full upgrade of the facility to meet global standards in inmate care and correctional service delivery.
The committee behind the investigation, chaired by Usman Isiyaku Special Adviser on Public Administration and Service Reforms, has been directed to supervise the execution of these reforms to ensure lasting change and prevent future abuses.
