Enugu Chief Judge Commits To Non-Custodial Sentences To Ease Prison Overcrowding
The Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Raymond Ozoemena, has pledged full implementation of non-custodial sentences, such as community service, to reduce overcrowding in Enugu’s custodial facilities. Speaking at the unveiling of the “Operational Framework for Community Service Sentences” and a workshop for judges and magistrates, Ozoemena emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to using alternative sentencing for minor offenses, supported by the Enugu State Justice Reform Team (ESJRT) and Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organisation (CAPIO).
Represented by Justice Anthony Onovo, Ozoemena noted that judges and magistrates were prepared to implement community service sentences ranging from one day to a few months. He assured that the Enugu State judiciary and government would provide the necessary resources, including temporary facilities for non-custodial officers and a designated office within the high court premises.
“We appreciate CAPIO and the ESJRT for developing the operational framework, providing guidance, and engaging various stakeholders,” Ozoemena said, also commending Governor Peter Mbah’s support for judicial improvements.
Rev. Fr. Jude Isiguzo, CAPIO’s Executive Director, praised the judiciary’s commitment to the new system, stressing that community service sentences not only aid in decongesting prisons but also rehabilitate offenders by allowing them to give back to their communities.
Justice C.I. Nwobodo of the Enugu State High Court added that although non-custodial sentencing has long been part of state law, resource limitations have delayed implementation. CAPIO’s support, she said, includes training officers across ministries and agencies to ensure smooth and effective enforcement.
The workshop was attended by over 50 judges and magistrates from the Enugu State Judiciary Service, who contributed to the newly unveiled operational framework for community service sentences.
