From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
Wife of Edo State governor, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, yesterday, said she is prepared to granting amnesty and freedom to deserving prison inmates.
She disclosed this during her visit to the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Oko, Benin City, on the occasion of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary.
This annual visit, a tradition undertaken by the wife of the state governor, underscores her dedication to the welfare and reformation of inmates within the state.
Represented at the event by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Peter Okonkwo, Mrs Obaseki emphasized the government’s keen interest in granting pardons and amnesty to inmates who have demonstrated genuine repentance and correction.
She encouraged prison officials to collate the names of eligible inmates and follow due process to submit these names to the appropriate authorities.
She assured attendees that she would oversee the process personally, reiterating the government’s focus on fostering hope and aiding in the rehabilitation of individuals within the correctional system.
“The government is positively inclined in this direction,” Mrs. Obaseki stated. “Granting freedom not only gives hope but also facilitates the process of correction and reformation.
” When inmates know that good conduct can lead to the reduction of sentences or even amnesty, they are motivated to improve themselves.”
In response, the Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service in Edo State, Philomena Ehimenoa, expressed gratitude for the governor’s support and shared her optimism about the promise made by the government.
“The governor has assured me that he will act on this matter, and I have already compiled the names and sent them to him. I urge everyone to pray for him to fulfill his promise and bring positive change to the lives of these individuals,” she remarked.
Assistant Controller General Friday Ovie addressed the inmates directly, urging them to embrace rehabilitation opportunities. “Live up to expectations and shun vices detrimental to your reformation and reintegration into society.
“Your commitment to genuine change can make a significant difference in your lives and contribute positively to our community.”
A representative of the inmates spoke during the event, acknowledging the governor’s wife influential role. “We believe that through your good office and your proximity to our father, His Excellency, the governor, you can advocate for the release and pardon of inmates who have genuinely repented.
“Your support can transform lives, including those of individuals like Monday Ogum who has been on death row the past twenty years, whose story is marked by redemption and transformation.”