Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi, Ogun State gubernatorial candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has called on the federal government to improve conditions at Nigerian prisons with a view to making it correctional rather than punitive.
He made the appeal while marking his birthday with those in custody at the Correctional Centre, Ibara Abeokuta, saying that making it correctional, would make those in custody to be sober and become better citizens upon return to the larger society.
“So, I use this opportunity to call on the governments, to please, make the conditions of our prisons better.
“A situation where the inmates battle bed bugs and other harsh conditions, makes it challenging for reformation to take place.
“Not a place where inmates would be battling bed bugs and other terrible conditions. Let prison conditions be better,” he said.
Ajadi also appealed to those under custody not to lose hope but to see inspiration in two African statesmen, former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, and former South African president, Nelson Mandela.
He said those men were able to endure the challenges of detention for years, and returned to play greater and more purposeful roles in the development of their countries, saying those in the correctional centre, who imbibe discipline trust in God and obedience to rules have a similar opportunity.
“The truth is that despite our personal challenges, there are many who would have been happy to be alive today, but they are not.
“But God, in His mercy has kept you we should thank Him. I know that some people may say, why should I thank God?
“Let me give you one reason: There is a wise saying, that a living dog is better than a dead lion. A living dog is better than a dead lion. And if you are alive today, you can be great tomorrow.
On his reason for making the visit, he said: “I told myself that my birthday this year would not be complete if I do not come to celebrate with you and to share these few words of encouragement.
“It is a token of the love that I have for you, and indeed for all human beings, because it is God that created all of us.
“If me a human being can remember you, then God remembers you, even in prison”.
Highlights of the celebration included the release of his official biodata as a way of availing writers and biographers with the accurate information with which they need to work.
Novelty football matches were also played in his honour, with Ajadi donating jerseys, cash gifts and nourishment for them, with promise of crusading the prompt release of those held for minor offences.
