The House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions has begun its oversight function on both the Abakaliki and Afikpo Custodial Centres in Ebonyi State.
The Chairman of the Committee and member representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency, Hon Chinedu Ogah, who led his colleagues to the Headquarters of Nigeria Correctional Services in Abakaliki, charged the men of the Command to be diligent with their duties as the Federal Government, through his Committee, was working assiduously to improve their welfare.
He queried the contractor that handled the construction work at the Headquarters of Correctional Services in Abakaliki for his inability to install water and toilet facilities within the complex.
He said his Committee was committed to ensuring that the Custodial Centres in the country were performing optimally, to the benefit of inmates and Nigerians as a whole.
Ogah, who entertained questions from the personnel of NCS, assured them that their challenges would be addressed in no distant time.
“We are here to oversee the ongoing work and the welfare of the inmates. This is our country, and it is only us that can make it good. A contractor can still do quality work and make his gains.
“If this place is safe, you are safe, and your life is safe. If it is conducive here, your lives will be conducive. You can’t endanger your life if the right thing is done.
“We try to make a budget for any work that is being done. Make sure you supervise and report appropriately because you are on the ground.”
At Afikpo Custodial Centre, he discussed with the inmates and personnel of NCS, assuring them that his Committee was in the state to look into their challenges and proffer solutions without delay.
The committee is expected to pay a courtesy call on Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State on Friday.
Committee on Reformatory institutions: Rep Ogah promises better welfare for inmates, personal of NCS