Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on Correctional Facilities has secured the release of at least 100 inmates in 2024, Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero, a member of the committee, has revealed.
According to Hon. Ehindero, who represents Akoko North East/Akoko North West of Ondo State, the committee’s oversight function played a crucial role in decongesting correctional facilities across the country. The figure, he noted, is in addition to his personal interventions and those of his colleagues.
The lawmaker, who marked one year in office, emphasized the importance of oversight functions, citing the committee’s visit to correctional centres where they witnessed overcrowding firsthand. He highlighted the challenges in justice administration, noting that most correctional facilities are overcrowded, and there is no law empowering receiving officers to reject inmates.
“We saw firsthand the deplorable conditions in our correctional facilities,” Ehindero said. “The overcrowding is a ticking time bomb, and it’s our responsibility as lawmakers to address this issue. We’ve been working closely with the relevant agencies to ensure that justice is served, and those who have been wrongly imprisoned are released.”
The committee, in collaboration with other government agencies, ensured the release of 100 inmates by paying their fines, among other measures. Hon. Ehindero explained that some of the inmates were awaiting trial for minor offenses, while others had already served their sentences but were unable to pay their fines.
“We’re not just talking about releasing inmates; we’re talking about giving them a second chance at life,” Ehindero said. “We’re working to ensure that our correctional facilities are not just places of punishment but also places of rehabilitation and reintegration into society.”
Ehindero also listed three crucial bills he sponsored, including one for the establishment of a college of education in Oyin Akoko, which has passed second reading and awaits public hearing. He expressed his passion for higher education and its potential to drive growth and development in Oyin Akoko and neighbouring communities.
“Education is the key to unlocking the potential of our young people,” Ehindero said. “By establishing a college of education in Oyin Akoko, we’re not just providing access to higher education; we’re also creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, and improving the overall quality of life for our people.”
As the newly appointed Chairman of the House Committee on Students Loan, Scholarships, Higher Education Financing, Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Ehindero expressed his commitment to ensuring that Nigerian students have access to affordable and quality education.
For 2025, Ehindero’s legislative agenda prioritizes training for skilled and unskilled graduates, job opportunities, road infrastructure, healthcare, water projects, medical outreach, and security for his constituents. Two patrol vehicles have already been purchased to enhance security measures within the constituency.
“We’re committed to delivering on our campaign promises and making a tangible impact on the lives of our people,” Ehindero said. “We’ll continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our constituents have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”
Ehindero’s efforts have been widely praised by his constituents, who have expressed gratitude for his commitment to their welfare.
“We’re grateful for Hon. Ehindero’s efforts in securing the release of our brothers and sisters from prison,” said Mrs. Abosede Ojo, a constituent. “His passion for education and his commitment to our community are truly inspiring.”
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