SPIDEL Moves to Free Deserving Inmates in Rivers

The Nigerian Bar Association's Public Interest Litigation and Development Law Section, NBA-SPIDEL, recently visited the Maximum Security Custodial Centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to identify inmates in need of legal aid. NBA-SPIDEL Chairperson, Prof Uju Agomoh, led the delegation, which was welcomed by the Controller of Corrections, Rivers State Command, CC RM Williams, FCAI. During the visit, NBA-SPIDEL lawyers engaged with the inmates, listening to their grievances related to legal issues and ongoing detention.

The delegation also sought a list of inmates who could benefit from fines or legal intervention, with a particular focus on those seeking assistance with bail applications. NBA-SPIDEL assured the inmates that the cases they identified would be reviewed, and appropriate legal actions taken to assist those deserving of support under the law. NBA-SPIDEL also pledged its commitment to improving inmates' welfare by providing essential items to address some of their identified needs within the facility.

The Controller of Corrections commended NBA-SPIDEL for their intervention, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between stakeholders, especially the legal profession, in enhancing access to justice, reducing overcrowding in custodial facilities, and supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.