Daud Olatunji
In a bid to further rehabilitate inmates and reintegrate them into society, no fewer than 19 inmates of the Old Abeokuta Correctional Centre have graduated from a Quranic school.
The inmates, who had been undergoing religious education as part of their rehabilitation while serving their sentences, were certified proficient in reading the Quran during a special graduation ceremony held at the correctional facility.
The event, which drew dignitaries and religious leaders from across Ogun State, was graced by the prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Abdul Lateef Ademoye, popularly known as Yah Satar.
The ceremony was themed “Religion as a Key Role in Offenders’ Rehabilitation,” reflecting the center’s focus on using faith-based approaches to reform its inmates.
Speaking during the event, Sheikh Ademoye underscored the vital role religion plays in transforming lives, particularly for those in correctional facilities.
He praised the graduates for their dedication to learning the Quran, noting that their efforts would bring them closer to Allah.
“Religion is a critical aspect of a person’s life, and it can serve as a powerful tool for rehabilitation.
“ These inmates have shown commitment and a desire to change, and I urge them to use this newfound knowledge to seek forgiveness from Allah and rebuild their lives,” Ademoye said.
He also commended the correctional centre’s administration for enabling the inmates to deepen their religious understanding, describing it as a significant step in the rehabilitation process.
Ademoye emphasized the need for continuous support from both the government and religious bodies in ensuring that such programmes are sustained.
The superintendent in charge of the Maximum Security Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Oladeji Ayoola, also spoke at the event, expressing his satisfaction with the impact of the Quranic school.
He called on other inmates who had yet to engage in educational or religious programs to take inspiration from the graduating class.
“This kind of programme is motivational for the inmates. It shows them that they can make positive use of their time here rather than staying idle.
“ As the Nigerian Correctional Service, our primary goal is to reform and correct, ensuring that once these individuals return to society, they do so as better people,” Ayoola said.
Ayoola further highlighted the broader educational and vocational initiatives available at the correctional facility, including opportunities for inmates to sit for the National Examination Council (NECO) and West African Examination Council (WAEC) exams.
“The centre also has a National Open University (NOUN) centre, where some inmates are currently pursuing degrees”, he said.
He urged religious bodies and other stakeholders to collaborate with the correctional service by providing additional resources and support, particularly in vocational training programs that can equip the inmates with valuable skills for life after incarceration.
“We welcome the involvement of any religious or community group willing to assist us in these efforts.
“The goal is to ensure that by the time these individuals leave, they are reformed and ready to contribute positively to society,” Ayoola concluded.
Part of the activities was the giving award to some dignataries to recognise their contributions to the course.
The graduation ceremony marked another significant milestone in the correctional center’s ongoing efforts to rehabilitate inmates through education and spiritual growth, reinforcing the centre’s commitment to its role as a reformative institution.
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