By: George Ozalla
Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has stressed the need for urgent reforms in the country’s correctional service, emphasizing that the treatment of vulnerable members of society signals the government’s effectiveness.
Speaking at the public hearing of the Independent Investigation Panel, the Minister highlighted key areas requiring reform, including reducing correctional centres, addressing overcrowding, and providing alternative measures to incarceration.
The Minister went further to emphasize the importance of treating inmates with dignity and respect, and providing opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Tunji-Ojo charged the investigation panel to provide solutions and timelines for implementation, rather than just identifying problems.
The public hearing, which is ongoing at the Abuja Continental Hotel, is geared towards addressing growing concerns over alleged corruption, human rights abuses, and perceived systemic persecution of some staff and irregularities within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The panel has reassured its commitment to ensuring that the voices of victims, affected families, and concerned stakeholders are heard, and that justice is served accordingly.
Earlier in her remark, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, welcomed stakeholders to the second public hearing of the independent investigative panel. Ajani expressed gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his commitment to justice, transparency, and reform within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
She also acknowledged the support of key partners, including the National Human Rights Commission, UNICEF, International IDEA, Civil Society Organisations, and prison fellowship.
The initial public hearing held exposed serious concerns regarding the treatment of persons in custody, management of correctional facilities, and breaches of legal and ethical standards.
As the second public hearing commenced, the panel reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the voices of victims, affected families, and concerned stakeholders were heard and that justice delivered. The findings and recommendations from this inquiry will serve as a foundation for meaningful reform, ensuring courage and a shared commitment to the truth.
The public hearing is expected to continue until March 14th at the Abuja Continental Hotel, providing stakeholders with an opportunity to contribute to the discussion and shape the future of Nigeria’s correctional service.
