Stigma Driving Ex-Inmates Back To Prison, NCoS Reports

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) expressed concern on Monday that stigma and societal rejection are pushing some formerly incarcerated individuals back into prison.

Controller General of the NCoS, Haliru Nababa, voiced these concerns at The Podium’s annual national conference in Abuja.

Nababa, represented by NCoS Non-Custodial Head, DCG Abolade Benson, noted significant challenges in reintegrating former inmates into society.

He stated, “Our main goal is reform, and we are doing our best. Unfortunately, many still perceive those who leave correctional facilities as criminals, which hinders their reintegration. As a result, some find it easier to return to prison.”

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He also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for increasing the daily feeding allowance for inmates from N750 to N1,250.

This 50 percent increase, approved last week, aims to address rising food costs and enhance inmate welfare.

Nababa remarked, “The increase to N1,250 per day is a significant improvement, and we are working to ensure inmates receive adequate nourishment.”

Current data from the NCoS reveals that Nigeria has 84,575 inmates.

In a related development, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun called for understanding regarding the police’s role in the judicial process.

Represented by Assistant Commissioner of Police Tino Dangana, Egbetokun explained that the maximum duration for police remand of a suspect is two weeks.

Egbetokun said, “Our role is to arrest and charge suspects, while the court decides their fate.

However, the court is often overwhelmed, leading to inefficiencies in the system.

We are committed to improving the protection of suspects’ rights in line with international standards.”

Felix Akpoi, Convener of The Podium for Social Justice, praised both the police and correctional facility authorities for noticeable improvements in their services.

However, he highlighted ongoing issues of trust and corruption within the system.

Akpoi said, “While the police are making efforts, trust remains a significant issue. For Nigeria to achieve the standards seen in countries like Turkey, we need to address concerns about the accurate distribution of resources and build public trust. Despite the challenges, we remain hopeful for progress.”

In a separate development, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered a scheme by Prophet Jeremiah Omoto, operating under Christ Mercy Land Delivery Ministries in Delta State, to sell unregistered products to unsuspecting Nigerians.

The products, including “miracle water” and “miracle soap”, are falsely claimed to be NAFDAC-approved and possess healing properties, such as curing barrenness and ensuring pregnancy with twins.