Foundation Offers Training For Freed Inmates As Kogi Chief Judge Pardons 27

In a significant act of charity and rehabilitation, the Victory Idewele Foundation on Thursday paid ₦10 million to secure the freedom of 27 inmates in Kogi State correctional centres. The sum covered fines and compensations, enabling their release during a three-day visit by Justice Josiah Majebi, the Chief Judge of Kogi State, to six correctional facilities.

Justice Majebi revealed that the foundation has further pledged to provide three months of vocational training in Abuja for the pardoned inmates, equipping them with skills to become self-reliant and reintegrate into society.

At the Koton-Karfe Maximum Security Correctional Centre, two inmates benefited from the initiative. Mustapha Idris, fined ₦50,000, was released, while Kehinde Amaka, fined ₦300,000, will complete his sentence on January 15, 2025, before rejoining society.

At the Kabba Medium Security Custodial Centre, 20 inmates were freed, while five others regained their freedom in Ankpa.

Justice Majebi emphasised the purpose of his visit: to ensure no inmate is detained unjustly. He cautioned magistrates against becoming tools of oppression and criticised prosecutors for delays that prolong the detention of awaiting trial inmates unnecessarily.

Praising Mr. Innocent Idewele, founder and chairman of the Victory Idewele Foundation, Justice Majebi highlighted the uniqueness of the gesture.

“This visit is special and unprecedented in the history of Kogi State. Before our visit, Mr. Idewele was introduced to me by Hon. Halidu Adejo, chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary. Mr. Idewele expressed his desire to pay the fines and compensations of inmates to secure their release,” Justice Majebi said.

He explained that after consultations with correctional officers across Ankpa, Dekina, Idah, Koton-Karfe, Kabba, and Okene centers, the foundation paid the total amount required for the inmates’ release to the state government.

Justice Majebi commended Idah Local Government Chairman for his concern for the custodial centre in the area and urged other local government leaders to follow suit, stressing the importance of collective responsibility for societal progress.

Innocent Idewele, in his remarks, reiterated the foundation’s mission to transform lives, particularly among the less privileged. He emphasised the need for private and corporate entities to complement government efforts in addressing societal needs.

The groundbreaking initiative not only secures the freedom of the inmates but also provides them with a pathway toward rehabilitation and reintegration, setting a precedent for restorative justice in Kogi State.