Mrs. Priscilla Otti, the wife of Abia Governor, has called on the judiciary to expedite judicial proceedings to decongest inmates in the Nigeria’s Correctional Centers.
During an impromptu visit to the Nigeria Correctional Facility in Aba, Mrs. Otti not only donated food items, sanitary packs, and essential materials to the inmates but also stressed the importance of swift justice in reducing the congestion within the correctional system.
She reminded the inmates that the purpose of their stay in the facility was correction, not punishment, aimed at rectifying actions inconsistent with the laws of the land.
“I am pleased to announce that the government of Dr. Alex Otti is committed to enhancing the correctional facility’s workshop, emphasizing skills acquisition, and promoting educational advancement among inmates,” Mrs. Otti declared.
As the Governor’s wife, she expressed her focus on prioritizing skills acquisition and human capacity development. Mrs. Otti commended the management of the facility for their efforts and encouraged inmates to reflect on their lives, distance themselves from past mistakes, and strive for improvement as they transition out of the facility.
She also praised the Female Lawyers Association (FIDA) for providing legal aid to female inmates and pledged ongoing collaboration to support those without legal aid.
Mrs. Otti assured inmates interested in skills like tailoring, carpentry, barbing, and hairdressing that they would receive assistance in acquiring these skills, fostering development and encouraging academic pursuits.
Mrs. Julie Anyanwu, the State Comptroller in charge of Nigeria Correctional Service Aba, expressed gratitude for Mrs. Otti’s unprecedented visit and highlighted the correctional facility’s shift from punitive measures to correction, training, and guidance through skills acquisition.
Barrister Akudo Amanamba, the State President of FIDA, affirmed the organization’s commitment to pro bono services for indigent people and promised a change of attitude towards expediting judicial proceedings for those awaiting trial.
In goodwill messages, the Mayor of Aba South LGA, Mr. Uche Nwogu, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, assured the inmates that they are not forgotten, affirming the state government’s continuous attention to their welfare under Governor Otti’s leadership.
