Feyi Ogunbiyi
Two nursing mothers and eight other inmates at the Ibara Correctional Center, Abeokuta, Ogun State, have regained their freedom following the intervention of the Olu of Itori, Oba Abdul Fatai Akamo, who paid their fines as part of events marking his 21st anniversary on the throne.
The released inmates, comprising three women—including two nursing mothers—and seven men, had been unable to meet their bail conditions after being charged with various offenses.
The visibly relieved women carried their infants on their backs as they walked out of the facility into a new chapter of their lives.
Oba Akamo, in his humanitarian gesture, not only secured their release but also provided each of them with a cash token to cover their transportation expenses home.
Additionally, he donated essential supplies to the correctional facility, further demonstrating his commitment to social welfare.
Accompanied by the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola, the Itori monarch urged the freed inmates to embrace a new beginning and assured them that their future remains bright despite their past mistakes.
Addressing the inmates, Oba Akamo emphasized the power of resilience and faith, urging them to remain hopeful and strive for a better future.
“Do not give up. Tomorrow will be great. Always pray for Governor Dapo Abiodun; he is a person with a good heart and will always remember you,” the monarch said.
He further assured the inmates that their concerns and requests would be relayed to the state government, promising to advocate for improved welfare and opportunities for rehabilitated individuals.
Beyond securing the release of the inmates, Oba Akamo also donated N2 million to the correctional facility in appreciation of the efforts of the State Controller, Adesina Abioye, and his team in maintaining the center.
He appealed to correctional officers to see their role as one of mentorship and guidance, treating inmates as their own children and helping them reintegrate into society.
“I appeal to the correctional officers to see these children as their own. Guide them on the right path. We will continue to do our part by extending our service to humanity,” he stated.
During his visit, the monarch took special interest in an inmate serving a 23-year sentence for illegal land sales.
He pledged to present the case to the state government for possible review, demonstrating his commitment to justice and rehabilitation.
The Controller of the Ibara Correctional Center, Adesina Abioye, who represented the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, expressed deep appreciation for Oba Akamo’s intervention, noting that many inmates remain incarcerated due to their inability to meet bail conditions.
“I really appreciate Kabiyesi for this. When he visited earlier, he promised to pay fines for some inmates and make donations during his anniversary celebration, and he has fulfilled that promise,” Abioye said.
He called on other philanthropists to emulate the monarch’s generosity, stressing the urgent need for continuous support in enhancing the facility’s operations.
“It’s not everyone who makes promises that fulfills them. We need this kind of gesture from philanthropists to aid the development of this facility. There is still a lot of work to be done,” he added.
In recognition of his contributions, Oba Akamo was presented with an award of honor by the correctional facility’s management.
Before departing the facility, the 11 freed inmates were advised to reflect on their experiences and apply the lessons learned during their time in detention to their future endeavors.
“Let this be a turning point in your lives. Avoid anything that will bring you back here and make good use of your second chance,” Controller Abioye advised.
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