IBADAN – An Assistant Controller of Corrections and Officer-in-Charge, Medium Security Custodial Centre, Agodi, Ibadan, Mr Sunday Adekunbi, has urged the government to remove the ‘stigma’ hindering released convicts from easily securing employments.
Adekunbi made the call on Wednesday at the second edition of the Inmates’ Debate Competition organised by the Nigerian Correctional Service, Medium Custodial Centre, Agodi, Ibadan.
He said that the constitution clause that mandates citizens to disclose in application forms whether or not they have been convicted before has continued to hinder reformed inmates from employment.
Reports that the debate with the topic – “Society/Individual: Who Contributes More to Crime”, was organised in collaboration with Inmates’ Educational Foundation, Jelitop Skills and Empowerment Development Association(J-SEDA) and other partners.
Adekunbi said the clause in job application forms prevents both employers in the public and private sectors from employing ex-inmates, despite their rehabilitation in custodial centres.
“That stigma is still there. After we might have done a lot to make them good persons, when they get to society they still face stigmatisation and discrimination,” he stated.
The Assistant Controller of Corrections said the topic of the debate was selected to build confidence in inmates and prepare them to become responsible citizens after release.
He added that the centre runs functional programmes including a therapy workshop, barbing, laundry services, and a school programme to equip inmates with skills for life after incarceration.
Adekunbi commended the federal government and Non-Governmental Organisations(NGOs) for supporting correctional reforms.
He appreciated the Inmates’ Educational Foundation, J-SEDA, and other partners for their consistent support.
Adekunbi also advised parents to instill in their children and wards moral values and support them to acquire vocational skills to discourage them from life of crime.
He announced that the third edition of the inmates’ debate competition would hold on Sept. 23.
The event, the official said, would continue to promote rehabilitation and re-integration of inmates into society as productive citizens.
A representative of the Inmates’ Educational Foundation, Ms Balikis Aloba, called for more investments in education by government and the private sector so as to reduce poverty that often lead young people into crime and criminality.
Also, Mr Ayotunde Omoloye from J-SEDA said that the debate was not about winning an argument but an opportunity to learn, reflect, and understand the various factors that influence human behavior.
“Crime is a complex issue that affects individuals, families, and society as a whole.
“While some believe that social conditions such as poverty, unemployment, peer pressure, family background, and lack of opportunities play the greatest role in criminal behavior.
“Others argue that personal choices, character, values, and individual responsibility are the primary causes.
“Today’s debate provides a platform for participants to express their views, develop critical thinking skills, build confidence, and engage in constructive dialogue,” he said. (NAN)
