The Governor may cause proceedings to be instituted in the name of the State of Alabama for the acquirement by condemnation of any lands, rights-of-way or material needed for the use of the penitentiary, or the maintenance or operation of the prison system of the state, the purchase of which may be authorized by law. Such proceedings must be had in the probate court of the county in which such lands or other property, or a material part thereof, may be situated, and prosecuted in the name of the State of Alabama in accordance with the provisions of this chapter providing for the condemnation of lands for the public uses so far as the same may be applicable; except, that the application need not be certified, nor shall security for costs be required of the state.