Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Dr. Uju Agomoh, Secretary to the Independent Investigative Panel on Alleged Corruptions and other Violations in the Correctional Services in Nigeria, has urged concerted actions to address the myriad of problems of correctional centres across the country.
Agomoh stated this in an interview with press men at the venue of the panel’s sitting in Abuja. Agomoh said she was satisfied with the report received so far, which she described as “an eye opener” that exposed so many unknown issues with regards to inmates’ welfare, for those who are not familiar with correctional centres.
Her words: “The reports we have received so far have been quite revealing. It’s an eye-opener for many people, especially those who are not used to visiting correctional centres.
The panel has been receiving reports from various audit teams that visited selected states, including Lagos, Adamawa, Plateau, Anambra, and Edo. According to Agomoh, the panel has been transparent in its process, allowing members of the public to ask direct questions and seek clarification on any issues that are not clear.
She further stated: “We need the media to partner with us in creating awareness about the issues we are facing in our correctional centres. We need collective action to address these problems. ”
The panel’s hearing is expected to continue on January 13, 2025, with a focus on individual complaints and interfacing with key stakeholders. She therefore urged robust participation of Nigerians in the process, which will assist in finding solutions to the problems facing the correctional centres.
“We encourage Nigerians to participate in the process and assist us in finding solutions to the problems facing our correctional centres, ” Agomoh stressed.
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