By Emmanuel Oloniruha
No fewer than 13 inmates are to regain their freedom from the New Keffi Medium Security Custodial Centre on Monday, following the intervention of the Sunday and Omoikhere Orianran Foundation (SOOF).
The release followed the payment of court-ordered fines and compensation by the foundation to commemorate the birthday of its founder, Dr Rose Orianran-Anthony, during a visit to the facility.
Orianran-Anthony, who is also Secretary of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said the gesture was rooted in the Nigerian value of being ‘one’s brother’s keeper’.
“This is a place not many people remember. Over the years, we have reached out to orphanages and widows, but these inmates are also part of society.
“If we do not support and reform them, they may continue in a cycle of reoffending.
“The government cannot shoulder the burden of rehabilitation alone; well-meaning individuals must support correctional facilities,” she said.
She disclosed that the foundation had developed a post-release reintegration plan for the beneficiaries.
According to her, the plan includes monitoring and mentorship, family reunification therapy, and financial grants for those who acquired vocational skills while in custody to help them establish small businesses.
Orianran-Anthony urged the beneficiaries to make their lives “testimonies” of positive change and responsible citizenship.
Also speaking, a board member of the foundation, Dr Peter Orianran, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the beneficiaries become responsible members of society.
He commended the leadership of the facility for maintaining a conducive environment for rehabilitation.
As part of the intervention, the foundation donated food items, clothing, toiletries and medical supplies to the facility, while also stocking its clinic with essential drugs, including antibiotics and anti-malarials.
A member of the foundation’s medical team, Dr Charles Ojeabuo, conducted a health session for inmates, focusing on personal hygiene and handwashing practices.
In his remarks, the Officer-in-Charge, Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC) Samaila Bulus, commended the foundation for the initiative.
He noted that such partnerships were crucial as the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) strengthens its reformatory and rehabilitative mandate.
Bulus also praised the inmates for their good conduct and highlighted ongoing initiatives at the centre, including mentorship, vocational training and academic collaborations with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
Addressing the 13 inmates ahead of their release, he urged them to be law-abiding citizens, noting that the foundation’s intervention had greatly eased the service’s work.
As part of the outreach, the foundation donated food items, clothing, toiletries and medical supplies to the facility. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
OBE/TAK
Edited by Tosin Kolade
