No fewer than 25 indigent inmates have regained their freedom at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, after the wife of the state governor, Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwifuru, intervened by settling fines totaling ₦20.041 million.
The beneficiaries, who were serving sentences with an option of fine, comprised 24 men and one woman. While 23 inmates were released from the Abakaliki custodial facility, two others were freed from the Afikpo Correctional Centre.
Confirming the development, the Officer-in-Charge of the Abakaliki facility, Deputy Comptroller Oyoko Angela Chima Igwugwu, disclosed that the initiative is part of a sustained humanitarian effort by the Ebonyi State First Lady. She revealed that Mrs. Nwifuru facilitated the release of 41 inmates in 2024 and 53 inmates in 2023, in addition to providing food items and transportation support to beneficiaries.
Speaking at the release ceremony, Mrs. Nwifuru commended the Nigerian Correctional Service for its focus on rehabilitation and reintegration. She noted that the gesture aligns with Governor Francis Nwifuru’s Charter of People’s Needs and the objectives of her pet project, the Better Ebonyi Women Organization (BEWO), which prioritizes support for vulnerable and marginalized persons.
She advised the freed inmates to turn a new leaf and live responsibly, while also appreciating correctional officers for their commitment to inmate welfare.
The Ebonyi State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Ben Odo, applauded the First Lady’s intervention, stressing that the Abakaliki custodial centre remains severely overcrowded, currently housing 1,018 inmates against its official capacity of 387.
One of the beneficiaries, Obinna Ogbu, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Mrs. Nwifuru, pledging to live a reformed and law-abiding life. He also acknowledged the support and humane treatment received from correctional personnel during his incarceration.
The intervention highlights Ebonyi State Government’s ongoing commitment to social welfare, prison decongestion, rehabilitation, and compassionate governance, especially during the festive season.
Stay updated with Ebonyi News Network for real-time reports, in-depth analysis, and exclusive coverage of policies shaping Ebonyi State.
