A major development recently unfolded in Kogi State, Nigeria, as the Chief Judge, Justice Josiah Majebi, took a commendable step towards justice and rehabilitation by releasing 27 inmates from six correctional centers across the state.
This initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the non-governmental organization, Victory Idewele Foundation, which played a pivotal role in facilitating the release by paying the fines and compensations required for these inmates.
The release operation spanned several days, with Justice Majebi visiting various correctional facilities from Monday to Wednesday. The primary aim of this visit was to ensure that no inmate was unjustly detained due to their inability to pay fines or compensations.
During his visit to the Koton-Karfe Maximum Security Correctional Centre, two inmates were notably affected by this initiative. Mustapha Idris, who had been fined N50,000, regained his freedom, while Kehinde Amaka, sentenced to one year imprisonment with a fine of N300,000, benefited from the foundation's gesture but will remain in custody until January 15, 2025, to complete his jail term.
In addition to Koton-Karfe, the Chief Judge also visited the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kabba, where he released 20 inmates, and Ankpa, where five inmates were freed.
Justice Majebi emphasized the importance of ensuring that no inmate is detained unjustly and cautioned magistrates against being used as agents of oppression. He expressed concern over the unnecessary delays caused by some prosecutors, which result in prolonged detention for awaiting trial inmates.
Justice Majebi commended the Victory Idewele Foundation for its unprecedented support, stating, "This visit is special and unique because, in the history of the state, this type of additional event during correctional centre visits has never happened before."
He further elaborated on the foundation's involvement, explaining that prior to the visit, Hon. Halidu Adejo, chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary, introduced Mr. Innocent Idewele to him. Mr. Idewele expressed his desire to pay the fines and compensations of inmates to facilitate their release.
The financial commitment required for this initiative was substantial, amounting to ten million naira, which the foundation paid to the Kogi State government. Beyond securing the inmates' release, the foundation also provided transport fare to all the freed individuals and promised to take them to Abuja for skill acquisition training.
The foundation assured that it would provide accommodation, feeding, and starter packs at the end of the training exercise, thereby equipping the former inmates with the necessary skills to reintegrate into society successfully.
Justice Majebi also acknowledged the efforts of the chairman of Idah Local Government for his concern towards the custodial center in the town and urged other local government chairmen to follow suit in the interest of the state.
In his remarks, Innocent Idewele, the founder of the Victory Idewele Foundation, highlighted the NGO's focus on changing human lives, particularly those of the less privileged in society. He emphasized that addressing the needs of citizens should not be left solely to the government.
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