BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kaduna State Chapter, has called for the speedy trial and release of female inmates facing minor charges across correctional facilities in the State.
The chairperson of the association, Hajia Sahura Maidoki, made the appeal during a visit to the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kaduna, where NAWOJ members interacted with inmates and donated essential items.
She said the visit was part of the Association’s effort to amplify the voices of women behind bars and to use journalism as a tool for advocacy on justice reform and inmates’ welfare.
“Our focus is to ensure that women with minor offences are not left to languish in prison for long. We will continue to use our platforms to advocate for their speedy trial and reintegration into society”.
The NAWOJ chairperson also called on wealthy individuals, philanthropists, government agencies, and civil society organisations to support the release and rehabilitation of inmates who are unable to meet their bail conditions or pay fines for minor offences.
Receiving the delegation, the Assistant Controller of the Centre, Lawal Talle, commended NAWOJ for the visit and donations, noting that such gestures give inmates a sense of belonging and hope.
He explained that the facility remains committed to reforming inmates through education and skills acquisition, adding that several female inmates are currently enrolled in the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and various vocational programmes.
Talle assured that the management of the facility would continue to prioritize the welfare and rehabilitation of inmates in line with the mandate of the Nigerian Correctional Service.
Items donated by the Association included slippers, bathing soap, toilet rolls, underwear, detergents, and baby diapers, among other essentials.
