The Enugu State Government has expressed its appreciation to the Federal Government for approving the relocation of the Enugu Correctional Centre from its current site at the Government Reserved Area (GRA) to a more suitable location. The state government has also pledged its full cooperation in ensuring the prompt execution of the project.
Governor Peter Mbah made these assurances on Wednesday while receiving members of the House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions at the Government House, Enugu. The committee was led by its chairman, Hon. Chinedu Ogah.
Governor Mbah emphasized that the state government had long advocated for the relocation of the correctional facility, which was originally built in 1915, to alleviate security concerns and align with urban development plans.
“The Federal Government’s approval of the relocation of the Enugu Correctional Centre is highly commendable. This has been a long-standing request, and we are glad to have a partner in the central government. We are eager to engage and collaborate to bring this project to fruition,” Mbah stated.
He further revealed that the state government had already conducted a survey of a proposed new location and was prepared to share the findings with the committee.
“We have identified and surveyed a new site, which we are more than happy to present to you. We will also arrange a visit so you can assess the location firsthand,” he added.
Governor Mbah also underscored the need for an automated justice system to address the issue of congestion in correctional facilities. He highlighted his administration’s efforts in reforming the judicial system by implementing full automation of court processes, including the introduction of verbatim reporters to replace the traditional longhand method of documentation.
“Our goal is to ensure the swift dispensation of justice, as many inmates are awaiting trial. By expediting judicial processes, we can significantly reduce overcrowding in correctional centres. This automation, which we initiated last year, is now nearing completion,” he explained.
In his remarks, Hon. Chinedu Ogah commended Governor Mbah for enhancing security in Enugu State, noting that residents now feel safer traveling at any time of the day.
He also lauded the state government’s investment in security technology and the efforts of correctional officers, which have helped prevent jailbreaks in the state. Furthermore, he praised Governor Mbah’s developmental initiatives, which are creating jobs, driving economic growth, and reducing crime rates.
The committee welcomed the governor’s proactive approach to the relocation project, particularly his provision of a new site for the correctional facility. Additionally, they sought the state government’s support in providing vehicles for the transportation of inmates to and from trial sessions.
