The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has launched an initiative designed to address overcrowding in correctional centres by securing the release of Niger Delta indigenes convicted of minor offenses through the payment of fines.
The initiative tagged ‘Decongestion and Welfare Exercise’ was launched in collaboration with Peace and Development Projects, Velma Foundation, Benioni Akpa Development Foundation, and Lov Network Foundation.
Speaking during the handing over of the welfare materials at the Okaka Correctional Center in Yenagoa, Mr. Ovie Mathias, project manager and representative of Velma Foundation and Mr Bethel Aghogho representing Peace and Development Foundation said, NDDC is implementing the program to impact thousands of lives in the Niger Delta.
Explaining further he said that “the project will focus on individuals who are eligible for release based on the nature of their convictions and their inability to pay court-imposed fines.
“By intervening in this way, the NDDC aims to ease the burden on correctional facilities while providing an opportunity for rehabilitation and reintegration into society for deserving inmates.
“As part of the program, the NDDC will also distribute essential welfare materials to correctional centers across the region, starting with the Yenagoa Correctional Center in Bayelsa State.
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“These materials will include sleeping mattresses, mats, and essential medical drugs to improve the living conditions and well-being of inmates.
“Additionally, operational vehicles of the correctional facilities will receive a boost through the provision of new tyres, ensuring the effective functioning of these facilities.
“The NDDC’s intervention reflects its ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of the Niger Delta, not only through infrastructure development but also through human-centered initiatives.
“By partnering with respected organizations like Peace and Development Projects, Velma Foundation, Benioni Akpa Foundation, and Lov Foundation, the Commission is amplifying its efforts to deliver lasting, positive change to the region’s correctional institutions.
“This project is a testament to NDDC continued efforts in promoting peace, justice, and the well-being of the people in the Niger Delta,” said the representative of the NGOs, Comrade Mathias Ovie.
“We believe that by addressing the issue of overcrowding in our correctional centers and improving the conditions of the inmates, NDDC is contributing to the overall development of the region and ensuring that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu administration is reaching the indigent members of the region”
Receiving the items from the NDDC representative, the officer in charge of Okaka Correctional Center, Ogundare Rashidi said they were very happy because the items will be very useful for their students (inmates). Saying the items will go a long way to help in the welfare of the inmates.
The Correctional Center official applauded the Commission for the initiative, which he believes will bring relief to thousands of inmates while also enhancing the capacity of correctional centers to provide better rehabilitation services.
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