NCoS Commends Monsignor Obiora Ike, CIDJAP for Advancing Inmate Reformation

 

The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has lauded Monsignor Obiora Ike, founder of the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP), for his sustained contributions to inmate reformation and the improvement of custodial facilities.

The commendation comes as Ike marks significant milestones, his 70th birthday, 45 years in priesthood, and four decades of establishing CIDJAP celebrated on April 7.

Speaking at a novelty football match held in his honour at the Maximum Custodial Centre, Enugu, the Assistant Controller-General of Corrections and Zonal Coordinator, Zone M, Prisca Oku, described Ike as a “pillar of support” whose interventions have positively impacted inmates across Enugu State and beyond.

“On behalf of the Controller-General, Sylvester Nwakuche, we acknowledge and appreciate your 40 years of unwavering commitment to inmate welfare through both personal and institutional efforts,” Oku said, noting that CIDJAP’s humanitarian initiatives have played a pivotal role in correctional reforms.

Also speaking, the Enugu State Controller of Corrections, Valins Obizue, characterised Ike as “a voice for the voiceless,” highlighting his consistent advocacy for inmates at various levels of governance. 

He commended Ike’s enduring philanthropy, describing it as exemplary and deeply transformative.

The Deputy Controller of Corrections in charge of the facility, Dr Sunday Igwe, said the event was organised to honour Ike’s longstanding dedication to inmates’ welfare. 

He added that activities including the novelty match, facility tour, and exhibition of inmates’ vocational products were designed to showcase both appreciation and progress within the custodial system.

Igwe, however, used the occasion to appeal for critical support, including logistical assistance for inmate transportation to courts, rehabilitation of workshop equipment, and provision of essential utilities.

An inmate, speaking anonymously on behalf of others, acknowledged CIDJAP’s role in providing scholarships, vocational training, and healthcare support. 

He appealed for accelerated judicial processes and reintegration opportunities, emphasising the need for “freedom and societal reintegration” to enable inmates contribute meaningfully to society.

In his response, Ike pledged further intervention, including the donation of sewing machines and technical support to rehabilitate workshop equipment. 

He also committed to engaging relevant authorities to address logistical challenges, particularly in facilitating inmate transportation.

As a member of the State Committee on Prerogative of Mercy, Ike disclosed plans to advocate for periodic amnesty programmes tied to national observances such as Democracy Day, Independence Day, and New Year celebrations. 

He further indicated readiness to collaborate with the judiciary to expedite case reviews and deploy legal support for inmates lacking representation.

Ike also raised concerns about the incarceration of mentally ill individuals, calling for their transfer to appropriate medical facilities, and pledged to pursue compassionate considerations for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and nursing mothers in custody.

The event concluded with prayers offered by Ike for correctional officers, inmates, and stakeholders, reinforcing a shared commitment to rehabilitation, justice, and humane custodial practices.