Prison Life Better For Me, Says Man Who Spent 21 Years Behind Bars

A recently released inmate from Katsina correctional centre, Malam Gambo Mohammed, has narrated how he spent 21 in prison, saying that life was better for him in the prison than when he regained his freedom.

What was life like before prison?

I grew up in PRP Brigade quarters in Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State. After my O’level, I did not further my education and I ventured into fish business at Galadima area of Sabon Gari Market.

What landed you in prison?

One day, I was at a wedding ceremony in our neighbour’s house and there was a misunderstanding amongst us (the youths). One guy was killed on the spot, and when the police came, they arrested me. I can remember I too was injured. After sometime, I was taken to court and remanded in prison. I spent five years awaiting trial. Eventually, I was convicted for murder and sentenced to life imprisonment but I spent 21 years in prison. I stayed in Kurmawa Central Prison in Kano and later transferred to Kaduna before I was moved to Daura in Katsina State. It was in Daura that I regained my freedom during the prison decongesting exercise of the government.

What was life like in prison?

Life in prison is not a thing that you can wish even for your enemy. One has to be patient and has to submit totally to Allah. During my stay in prison, I studied the Quran and other Islamic books. Through out my stay in prison, I dedicated my life to pursuing Islamic knowledge. I was always in the mosque.

How have you been coping since your release?

When I returned home, I faced so many challenges. First, my parents died and our house was sold. My sisters used the money for food. Later, I went back to the prison. For me, life in prison is much better than what I met outside because I get everything free of charge in prison.

Recently, one organisation under Hajiya Fauziyya came to my rescue and even found a wife for me. The marriage took place two weeks ago. They paid rent for me. I am now happily married. What I am looking for now is a job

Daily Trust