The Controller of Nigerian Correctional Service, NCS, Akwa Ibom State Command, Frank Okonkwo has called for robust legislative and executive support for effective implementation of non custodial measures in the state.
He said the support would be in the form of increased budgetary allocation and provision of necessary tools to effectively supervise and rehabilitate offenders in the communities.
The controller made the call on Friday during a One-Day workshop on the “Effective Implementation of Non-Custodial Measures in Akwa Ibom State” organized by the NCS in collaboration with Akwa Ibom State Judiciary and Ministry of Justice in Uyo, the State capital.
Recall that the NCoS Act, 2019, specifically mandates the Service to adopt Non custodial measures for minor, non violent offenders. These measures could be in form of Community Service, Probation, Parole, Restorative Justice Measures, Fines and Restitution Orders without resorting to a prison term.
Okonkwo said Akwa Ibom command has strategically repositioned itself to play its role and ensure implementation of these measures calling for strengthened collaboration with the Judiciary, the Nigeria Police Force, the National Orientation Agency and Civil Society Organizations.
While dissuading public perception that non-custodial measures equate to letting offenders “get away with their offense” the controller stressed that the measures are not “soft options” but a smarter, more cost-effective and often more rehabilitative response to offending behaviour, particularly for minor, non-violent offences and vulnerable offenders.
He, therefore, called on communities in Akwa Ibom to accept and support this new paradigm, as successful reintegration makes for a safer society for all and to reduce overcrowding of the prisons.
“Nigerian Correctional Service, Akwa Ibom State Command, is fully committed to its role as the engine room for this new paradigm. We are moving from being mere jailers to becoming active agents of positive behavioural change, community safety, and national development.
“We want legislative and executive support which will be in form of increased budgetary allocation and provision of necessary tools to effectively supervise and rehabilitate offenders in the community.”
Okonkwo also thanked the Chief Judge of the State, Justice Ekaete Obot for giving them a conducive environment for the event, the Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice as well as Amitec Construction Company for their support towards the success of the workshop.
