The inmates of the Calabar Custodial Centre have received donations of essentials and food items from the wife of the Cross River State governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu.
Bishop Otu, who was received at the centre by the Controller of Corrections for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), Cross River State Command, Mr. Richard Williams, said that her visit was motivated by her personal inspiration and concern for the welfare of the inmates.
Mrs. Otu, who personally interacted with the inmates, further said that her believe in “fair hearing, justice and the decongestion of overpopulated centres,” were motivations for her visit.
She promised the inmates that within the limits of her powers and influence, she would explore other potential avenues to support the reformation and rehabilitation programmes.
The first lady further pledged to channel the concerns raised by the inmates to Governor Bassey Otu and commended the Controller of Corrections and the Superintendent of the Yard, Mr. Vitalis Ugochukwu for their professionalism and dedication to service.
According to her, “their exemplary leadership was evident in the ability to enforce reformation, rehabilitation, and successful reintegration of the inmates into society.”
Responding to the kind gesture, Mr. Vitalis Ugochukwu expressed deep appreciation to the wife of the governor for her continued support, stating “we are truly grateful for this kind gesture. Beyond words, we will demonstrate our appreciation through exceptional service delivery to the inmates.”
According to press release signed by the the Command Public Relations Officer, Mr. Effanga Etim, the items donated included bags of rice, gallons of vegetable oil, toiletries amongst others.
In the same vein, Mrs. Otu made donations to the two orphanages managed by the Catholic Church and that of the Cross River State Government, where she interacted with the children and caregivers.
She also visited the Saint John Paul Home for the elderly and donated food stuff as well as other essentials for the upkeep of the senior citizens.
Olusola Akintonde