The Deputy Controller of Corrections at the Uyo Medium Security Custodial Centre, Ezekiel Inyang, has called on Nigerians to embrace, support, and encourage reformed inmates in order to ensure their successful reintegration into society and reduce the tendency of returning to crime.
DCC Inyang made the appeal while receiving executive members of the Association of Heads of Federal Establishments, AHFE, Akwa Ibom State, during a visit to the custodial centre in Uyo.
Speaking during the interaction, the corrections officer decried the level of stigmatisation and rejection often faced by ex-inmates after regaining freedom, noting that many are treated as outcasts despite undergoing rehabilitation and reformation programmes while in custody.
According to him, society’s negative perception of former inmates deprives them of acceptance and a sense of belonging, a situation he said sometimes leads to depression and eventually pushes some individuals back into criminal activities.
He stressed that many inmates leave custodial centres transformed and determined to become productive members of society but are discouraged by discrimination and social exclusion.
“Society must learn to accept and encourage reformed inmates because rehabilitation can only be meaningful when there is acceptance and support from the community,” Inyang stated.
The Deputy Controller therefore appealed to Nigerians, corporate organisations, religious bodies, and community leaders to demonstrate love, care, and understanding towards former inmates by offering them opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Association of Heads of Federal Establishments, AHFE, Akwa Ibom State, Uduak Essien, commended the Nigerian Correctional Service for its commitment to reforming, rehabilitating, and reintegrating inmates into society.
Mrs Essien described the visit as part of the association’s social responsibility to identify with institutions involved in human rehabilitation and nation-building.
She praised officers of the correctional service for their sacrifices and dedication to transforming the lives of inmates, noting that their efforts often go unnoticed despite the critical role they play in restoring hope and dignity to affected individuals.
The AHFE Chairman encouraged the officers not to relent in their duties, assuring them of the association’s continued support and prayers for improved welfare and enhanced service delivery.
The visit further underscored the growing call for collective responsibility in supporting ex-inmates and building an inclusive society where reformed persons can regain confidence, dignity, and a true sense of belonging.
Highlight of the visit was the presentation of food items, toiletries, and other relief materials to the custodial centre for the welfare of inmates.
By: Ikechukwu Agbamegbue, Uyo.
