International Prisoners' Justice Day: Rev. Fr. Victor Nyoroh CM Sends Message of Hope to Citizens Behind Bars
International Prisoners' Justice Day: A humanitarian and Catholic clergyman, Rev. Fr. Victor Nyoroh CM, sends a message of hope to citizens behind bars, calling for advocacy and action in Nigeria.
The International Day of Prisoners’ Justice, observed annually on August 10, is a solemn occasion to remember those who have died in custody and to advocate for the rights, welfare, and dignity of incarcerated individuals. This global observance serves as a rallying point for human rights defenders, civil society organisations, and governments to reflect on the conditions within correctional institutions and push for reforms that uphold justice and humanity.
In Nigeria, the significance of this day cannot be overstated. Our custodial centres continue to face immense challenges—overcrowding, underfunding, prolonged pre-trial detentions, lack of adequate healthcare, and poor rehabilitation structures. With over 70% of inmates in some facilities being Awaiting Trial Persons, we are confronted with a pressing need for systemic review and legislative action.
Nyoroh calls for advocacy and actions against speedy trials and legal representation for inmates awaiting trial, improved custodial centres, healthcare services and welfare, respect for human dignity in custodial practices, and support for rehabilitation and reintegration programs.
Support the non-custodial measures of the minor offenders, and promote restorative justice models to enhance peaceful co-existence.
Speaking with newsmen in Abuja, the nation's capital, Fr. Victor Nyoroh said, "Earthspring International Outreach (EIO) renews its dedication to shining light into places often forgotten. We do this by providing welfare support, healthcare, legal help, education, and empowerment programs that transform lives behind bars."
Furthermore, he said they achieve their goals by partnering closely with justice institutions to ensure humane conditions in prisons and distributing essentials like food, medications, clothing, toiletries, footwear, and beverages while offering legal representation, court support, and financial aid for bail and fines. "Our Take Them Out and Keep Them Out (TOKO) initiative facilitates the education of inmates through the provision of materials, exam registration, and skills training, helping both inmates and their families move forward with dignity," he added.
"We have championed the establishment of functional Maternal and Child Health Units in prisons, notably at Suleja, Keffi, and Lafia, bringing essential healthcare to expectant mothers, nursing women, and infants within custody. By 2021, our efforts had trained more than 1,300 prisoners, rehabilitated over 921 ex-inmates, constructed three prison healthcare units, empowered 312 youths, trained 357 women in vocational skills, and provided 500 free eye care sessions."
Over the years, we've organised the INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON PRISONERS' JUSTICE (ICPJ) in partnership with various stakeholders to commemorate the International Day for Prisoners' Justice. The initiative has brought together various individuals and groups, including government officials, civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations, community leaders, legal aid groups, and reform-minded institutions, to discuss and address issues related to prisoners' justice. These conferences often aim to promote collaboration, develop action plans, and foster a more equitable justice framework.
Looking ahead, Earthspring is preparing to mark this day later in the year, continuing the tradition of a commemorative event that not only raises awareness but also mobilises community support, partnerships, and renewed action for prisoners’ rights and rehabilitation.
Let us continue to raise our voices for those whose voices have been silenced behind bars. Prisoners are also human beings, not spoiled goods.
Join us and stand with us as we uphold sustainable justice, extend compassion, rebuild lives and give humanity a second chance.
Happy International Day of Prisoners’ Justice.
Rev. Fr. Victor Nyoroh, CM, Esq.
Executive Director, Earthspring International.
Convener, International Conference On Prisoners' Justice (ICPJ).
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