Project Abstract

Abstract
The Nigerian prison system has long been plagued by human rights abuses, with reports of overcrowding, poor living conditions, inadequate healthcare, and torture being common. This study focuses on the specific case of the Niger State Prison to provide a detailed examination of the human rights abuses prevalent in the Nigerian prison system. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data on prison population and conditions with qualitative data gathered through interviews with current and former prisoners, prison officials, and human rights activists. The findings reveal a grim picture of human rights violations within the Niger State Prison. Overcrowding is a severe issue, with the prison operating at nearly double its capacity, leading to poor sanitation and increased violence among inmates. The lack of access to adequate healthcare services further exacerbates the already dire living conditions, with reports of preventable diseases going untreated and a high prevalence of mental health issues among prisoners. Torture and other forms of physical abuse are disturbingly common within the prison, with both inmates and former prisoners reporting instances of beatings, electric shocks, and other forms of torture by prison staff. The lack of accountability and oversight mechanisms within the prison system allows these abuses to persist unchecked, creating a culture of impunity among prison officials. The study also examines the impact of these human rights abuses on the prisoners themselves, finding high levels of trauma, fear, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness among the incarcerated population. The lack of rehabilitation and reintegration programs further compounds the issues, with many prisoners facing a cycle of recidivism due to a lack of support upon release. In conclusion, the research highlights the urgent need for reforms within the Nigerian prison system, with a specific focus on the Niger State Prison. Addressing issues such as overcrowding, healthcare access, and the prevalence of torture is essential to upholding the human rights of prisoners and ensuring their dignity and well-being are protected. The findings of this study contribute to a growing body of literature on human rights abuses in Nigerian prisons and underscore the need for immediate action to address these systemic issues.

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