In line with its nationwide initiative to alleviate overcrowding in custodial centres, the Federal Government has paid fines for the release of 11 inmates across four facilities in Enugu State. The Enugu, Nsukka, Oji River Custodial Centres, and Ibiteolo Farm Centre in Ezeagu Local Government Area saw the beneficiaries regain their freedom.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, represented by Mrs. Ogechi Ogu, Deputy Director, Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action, announced the release of these inmates among the 4,068 serving sentences with options of fines and compensation nationwide. The move aims to decongest centres and create a more humane environment for rehabilitation.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo disclosed that philanthropic individuals, groups, and corporate bodies raised N585 million as part of their corporate social responsibility to settle fines, allowing inmates with fines not exceeding N1 million to benefit. Each released inmate receives a stipend of N10,000 and has undergone training to enhance functional skills and self-reliance upon discharge.
Highlighting the importance of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope mantra, the minister urged the benefiting inmates to see this as a second chance for reformation and contribution to national development. He appreciated stakeholders for their corporate social responsibility in facilitating the initiative.
The Controller of Corrections in Enugu State, Mr. Nicholas Obiako, thanked the Federal Government and the minister for securing the release of the inmates. He emphasized that the Nigerian Correctional Service in Enugu had prepared the released inmates with formal education and vocational training, providing them with certificates for employment or self-reliance.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Maduabuchi Okonkwo, expressed gratitude to the president, minister, and stakeholders, pledging not to return to a life of crime. The release sparked joy among other inmates, who hoped for similar favorable outcomes. The call to society was to accept these returning citizens with open arms, enabling their smooth integration into the community.
