In a bid to deliver on its statutory mandate of collaborating with relevant organisation to advance the course of human rights in Nigeria, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and Hope Behind Bars Africa (HBBA) have successfully facilitated the release of four inmates from Suleja Correctional Centre. This initiative was part of the commemoration of Nelson Mandela Day, which emphasizes the importance of treating prisoners with dignity and respect.
The NHRC team led by the Executive Secretary Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, paid some fines for the four inmates, Michael Udoh, Abdul Hassan, Mohammed Sani, and Yunusa Yusuf, who were unable to afford their fines. The released inmates were also provided with transport fares to enable them to return home to reunite with their families.
According to the NHRC Boss, Mandela Day is celebrated every year to shine light on the legacy of a man who changed how prisoners should be treated. “So that their dignity will be maintained, so that poverty will be eliminated” he said. He added that prisoners are entitled to the right to food, health, freedom of expression, and must be treated with dignity. “We took leave to celebrate it today because we wanted to celebrate it with the inmate at the Suleja Correctional Centre” he explained.
Similarly, the Chief Legal Officer with the NHRC Mr. Obioha Okoro made a presentation on the Mandela Rules, highlighting the need to respect the rights and dignity of inmates.
The Chief Legal Officer of Hope Behind Bars Africa, Mr. Samuel Olukade also expressed concern about the limited correctional centres for female inmates in the country. He urged corrections officers to treat female inmates with special care.
As part of their visit, the NHRC and HBBA donated essential items to the correctional centre, demonstrating their commitment to improving the welfare of inmates.
This gesture shows the NHRC's dedication to promoting the rights and dignity of inmates, particularly those who are vulnerable or unable to access justice.
The released inmates who were given transport fare to convey them to their various destinations expressed appreciation to both organisations promising to be better citizens as they depart the Suleja correctional facility.
