KEFFI, Nigeria — Thirteen young men are set to regain their freedom this Monday from the New Keffi Medium Security Custodial Centre following a strategic intervention by the Sunday and Omoikhere Orianran Foundation (SOOF). The release was made possible after the foundation paid the court-ordered fines and compensation for the inmates to celebrate the birthday of its founder, Dr. Rose Orianran-Anthony, on May 1st.
The Officer-in-Charge of the facility, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Samaila Bulus, commended the foundation’s role, noting that such partnerships are vital as the Nigerian Correctional Service pivots toward a “more corrective mechanism”. Bulus praised the inmates for their “good conduct” and emphasized that the centre now focuses on mentorship, training, and academic partnerships with the National Open University. Addressing the departing men, he urged them to be “good citizens” and acknowledged that the foundation’s act of kindness had significantly “made their jobs easier”.
“This is Who We Are”: A Vision of National Compassion
Reflecting on the motivation behind the outreach, Dr. Orianran-Anthony—who also serves as the Secretary of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)—stated that the gesture was rooted in the traditional Nigerian spirit of being “one’s brother’s keeper.”
“This is a place not many people remember,” she remarked. ”Over the years we go to orphanages, we go to widows, but these [inmates] are part of our society. If we do not correct them, if we do not help them, then they will keep going round in circles.” She further stressed that the government cannot handle the burden of rehabilitation alone and called on other “good-spirited individuals” to support such facilities.
Comprehensive Reintegration and Empowerment
Dr. Orianran-Anthony made it clear that the foundation’s involvement does not end at the prison gates. A detailed post-release plan has been established to ensure the 13 men successfully transition back into society:
- Monitoring and Tracking: The foundation will track the men to ensure they are “doing the right thing” and staying on a positive path.
- Family Reunification: Recognizing that some families have “forgotten” relatives in custody, SOOF will provide therapy and interventions to help reunite them with their loved ones.
- Economic Support: For those who acquired skills during their time in the centre, the foundation will provide “little money to set up a trade” to help them lead meaningful lives.
Health Advocacy and Humanitarian Aid
The outreach included a massive donation of essential items, including a “huge amount” of food, clothing, toiletries, and medical supplies.
Dr. Charles Ojeabuo, a medical doctor with the foundation, delivered a health talk to the inmates, urging them to prioritize personal hygiene and hand washing. The medical team also provided critical medications, including antibiotics and antimalaria drugs, to the centre’s clinic to support those still in custody.
A Legacy of Responsibility
Dr. Peter Orianran added that the foundation remains dedicated to ensuring its beneficiaries become “responsible citizens”. He commended Chief Superintendent Bulus for his “professionalism” and for maintaining a facility that allows for such transformative interventions.
As the 13 men prepare for their release on Monday, Dr. Orianran-Anthony concluded that their lives should serve as “testimonies to those still there,” proving that it is possible to turn a new leaf and impact society positively.
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