By Abba -Eku Onyeka
Abuja
Dr. Uju Agomoh, Secretary to the Independent Investigative Panel on Alleged Corruptions and other Violations in the Correctional Services in Nigeria, has called on Nigerians to join hands in addressing the myriad of problems facing correctional centres across the country.
In an interview with our correspondent, Dr. Agomoh expressed her satisfaction with the reports received so far, describing them as “an eye-opener” that has revealed many unknown issues, especially to those who are not familiar with correctional centres.
“The reports we have received so far have been quite revealing,” Dr. Agomoh said. “It’s an eye-opener for many people, especially those who are not used to visiting correctional centres,” she said.
The panel has been receiving reports from various audit teams that visited selected states, including Lagos, Adamawa, Plateau, Anambra, and Edo. Dr. Agomoh noted that the panel has been transparent in its process, allowing members of the public to ask direct questions and seek clarification on any issues that are not clear.
“We have been transparent in our process,” Dr. Agomoh said, adding: We have allowed members of the public to ask direct questions and seek clarification on any issues that are not clear.”
The panel’s investigation has revealed various challenges, including corruption, inadequate facilities, and poor living conditions in the correctional centres. Dr. Agomoh urged the media to partner with the panel in creating awareness about the issues and the need for collective action to address them.
“We need the media to partner with us in creating awareness about the issues we are facing in our correctional centres. We need collective action to address these problems,” she stated.
The panel’s public hearing is expected to continue on January 13, with a focus on individual complaints and interfacing with key stakeholders. She therefore encouraged Nigerians to participate in the process and assist in finding solutions to the problems facing the correctional centres.
“We encourage Nigerians to participate in the process and assist us in finding solutions to the problems facing our correctional centres,” Dr. Agomoh said.