Prestige Elite Club of Nigeria , a non-governmental organisation, has called on the federal government to enhance the country’s justice system. The organisation emphasised that numerous people facing minor charges endured hardships in correctional centres. During a visit to the Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison in Lagos to celebrate Easter with inmates, Mr. Victor Mgboji, a club member, emphasised the importance of a more efficient justice system in releasing prisoners on time. He emphasised the importance of implementing efficient processes in the legal system to ensure timely case resolution despite acknowledging its progress.
Mgboji reassured that efforts are underway to improve the current work situation. He believes that, given time, things will fall into place. Prestige commits to finding ways to support inmates, particularly those with minor offences. They are dedicated to finding solutions to help these inmates. Though the system has flaws, progress will be made soon. Ensuring the well-being of prisoners is crucial. It is essential to prioritise their needs first. Among them are individuals awaiting trial and those charged with minor offences, all considered innocent until proven guilty by law.
Court delays lead to detaining individuals for minor crimes.
The government may explore methods for expediting certain cases. Delays in court proceedings have resulted in individuals being detained for minor offences. The justice system can play a crucial role in ensuring the timely release of prisoners by speeding up the legal process. At the visit, motivated by their discussions on potential projects in October 2023, the organisation’s president, Mr. Anthony Ukhun, mentioned that during their end-of-year party in December 2023, they invited an orphanage home to join their celebration.
After the party, one participant was inspired by what he witnessed and proposed that they should consider undertaking a project to help improve conditions in the local prison, which marked the project’s inception. In addition to delivering 2,000 food packs, they also supplied toiletries, soap, toothbrushes, and slippers for the bathroom. While the federal government can offer these essential items, whether they will do so remains to be seen. Therefore, compassionate humanitarian organisations must step in and provide assistance where needed. Sponsors can potentially collaborate with them to provide the necessary ICT equipment, and they will keep sponsors informed about the inmates’ needs.
Prisoners have access to education with federal government support.
Mr. Dennis Nwosu, the club’s Project Director, shared that the project’s main goal is to provide support and remind individuals in correctional centres that they are not forgotten and that there are individuals who care about them. Others’ perceptions of them do not align with reality. Their experiences have been different. Due to federal government support, Many can pursue studies at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). Upon completion, they have a certificate that opens doors to a brighter future. He noticed that the community was full of peace-loving individuals who believed that despite their past transgressions, they had the potential to reintegrate into society as improved individuals.
Moreover, the Overcrowding in prisons resulting from delayed releases not only strains resources and Infrastructure but also creates a breeding ground for increased tensions and conflicts among inmates. This, in turn, poses a risk to the safety and well-being of both prisoners and prison staff. Extended periods of imprisonment beyond designated release dates can delay prisoners’ chances of successful reintegration into society, leading to increased recurrence rates. Prioritising timely and efficient release processes is crucial in promoting a more lenient and effective justice system that upholds the rights and well-being of all individuals involved.
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Implementing a centralised database system to track prisoners’ release dates and progress towards rehabilitation can also aid in ensuring timely releases. By establishing clear protocols and procedures for reviewing and verifying release dates, the government can minimise errors and delays in the release process. Also, providing adequate resources and support to parole officers and social workers can facilitate the reintegration of released prisoners into society. Lastly, enhancing the efficiency of the justice system in releasing prisoners on time can not only alleviate prison overcrowding but also promote justice, rehabilitation, and societal well-being.