By Omowumi Omotosho
President Bola Tinubu has approved the relocation of 29 correctional centres, also known as prisons, from urban areas across the country. National Pilot gathered that Ilorin prison, Oke-kura is among those approved for relocation.
The president’s approval for the relocation of the prisons was revealed on Friday by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the unveiling of some operational vehicles for the Nigerian Correctional Service.
This development follows recent concerns raised by the new Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service in Kwara State, Famuwagun Oyediran, regarding the dire conditions at the Oke-Kura Custodial Centre.
Famuwagun during a visit to the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Mamman Saba Jibril two weeks ago highlighted that the facility is severely overpopulated, posing significant health risks to inmates. He described the situation as precarious and urged the state government to consider relocating the custodial centre to a more spacious site capable of meeting its operational requirements.
The controller emphasised the urgent need for improved conditions to ensure the safety and well-being of both inmates and correctional staff.
