The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ogun state, Mr. Oluwasina Ogungbade SAN, says government will expedite action to fastrack trial of inmates in courts, towards decongesting Correctional Centres in the state.
Mr. Ogungbade revealed this during a visit to the Ibara and Oba Correctional Centres, saying efforts would be ntensified to improve situation of things at the centres.
The Attorney General was accompanied by the Senior Special Assistants to the Governor on Legal Matters, Mr. Toyese Owoade and Mr. Ope Owotumi, Special Assistant to the Governor on Legal Matters, Ms. Toyin Aiyepola and Director of Public Prosecution in the Ministry , Mrs. Adejumoke Adewole.
He noted that the visit was necessitated by the need to assess the physical conditions of the facilities, engage personnel and inmates in the centres,to gain insights into the issues affecting the facilities.
Mr. Ogungbade stated that various initiatives were in the pipeline to streamline the legal processes and expedite the appearance of prisoners in court for hearing, noting that the Ministry would facilitate the smooth transfer of prisoners to court when needed.
” This approach will allow us to understand the multifaceted issues affecting the Correctional system and to formulate targeted strategies for improvement”, he said.
The Commissioner stated the need for collaboration between the Ministry of Justice and Correctional authorities to uphold the rights and dignity of inmates while ensuring public safety, adding that the Ministry was committed to championing reforms that would promote fairness, efficiency, and rehabilitation within the criminal justice system.
He pointed out that the visit would serve as a beacon of hope for both inmates and correctional staff, signalling a renewed focus on addressing the long standing issues plaguing the Correctional Centers.
In his remark, the Controller of Correctional Centre in the state , Mr. Saliu Adepoju appreciated the Commissioner and his entourage for visit, promising to be more dedicated and committed in upholding the ethics of the centre.
