Babatunde Hunpe, chairman, Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State, has facilitated the release of five inmates from the Badagry Correctional Centre.

In a statement on Sunday by his chief press secretary, Augustine Kriko, the chairman said the release on Wednesday is part of the council’s activities to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary.

The chairman said their freedom followed recommendations of a three-man committee set up by him, after receiving reports about their predicament.

He said the three-man committee includes the chief security adviser to the chairman, Johnson Adagba; the council’s legal officer, Olubode Savage; and his private secretary, Sewedo Samuel.

“The five inmates — three indigenes of Badagry Local Government and two from other areas were sentenced for various offences with options of fine ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦250,000, which they were unable to meet.

“Acting on the facility’s report, I mandated a committee to conduct detailed background checks and pay unscheduled visits to assess their conduct.

“After weeks of monitoring, the committee confirmed that the inmates had genuinely reformed, supported by strong evidence of good behaviour.

“One inmate, a professional barber, was especially commended for barbing the hair of fellow inmates and teaching others the skill,” he said.

According to the chairman, the intervention not only covered the settlement of their discharge conditions but also provided resources to support their return home and ensure their smooth reintegration into society.

“This gesture, in the spirit of Independence, reflects the council’s commitment to justice, mercy, and giving reformed citizens a fresh start,” he added.

(NAN)