IWD: Groups donate items to female inmates, reassure them of better tomorrow ||| NEWS CORNER

By Chigozie Uzosike…

As part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration, groups known as The Women, Peace and Security-State Multi-Stakeholder Implementation Monitoring Committee (WPS – SMIMC) and Administration of Criminal Justice Law State Level Working Group (ACJL-SLWG) being constituted by CLEEN Foundation have commemorated International Women’s Day with 50 female students at the Imo State Correctional Facility.

The engagement was designed to strengthen the students’ sense of self-worth, inspire personal growth, promote solidarity among women, and reinforce the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL), particularly in safeguarding the rights, dignity, fair treatment, and rehabilitation of persons in custody.

In welcoming the two committees, the Officer incharge of custodial facility, disclosed that the facility houses approximately 200 convicted, 19 on death row and 1200 awaiting trial. Of these numbers 48 are females.

He highlighted operational challenges, particularly limited vehicular support for conveying students/inmates to court and inadequate provision of food that makes it necessary that good spirited individuals should come and support the government in taking care of the inmates.

A key session themed “Give to Gain: Rights, Justice Action for All Women and Girls” was delivered by the WPS-SMIMC Chairperson, Nnennaya Enyinna-Eneremadu. She encouraged participants to recognize their intrinsic worth and reassured them that their aspirations remain valid and achievable. The Chairperson emphasized that the WPS platform actively upholds their rights, not only in policy but in practice; ensuring they are seen, valued, and supported.

Speaking on Legal Awareness and Support, the ACJL-SLWG Chairperson, His Worship, Ogochukwu Uzoechi, sensitized the students/inmates on their legal rights, stressing that being charged does not equate to guilt, and affirmed that the magistrate serves as an impartial arbiter of justice. She encouraged the female inmates to remain hopeful and to prepare for positive reintegration into society.

In addition, the representative from Legal Aid Council, Barr. Ngozi Ejike informed the students of the availability of free legal services for those unable to afford representation, reaffirming their commitment to supporting access to justice.

In response, the students/female inmates expressed gratitude and made collective commitments to support one another, pursue personal growth, and remain hopeful about their futures. They affirmed that their dreams remain valid and achievable with determination and faith.

Thy affirmed with the following words: “1 am a woman. I will support other women and girls to grow. The Correctional centre is not my last bus stop. I am on a journey. I will arrive safely, successfully and strong. My dreams are valid. My dreams are achievable. So, help me God”

As part of the celebration, food items, drinks, and toiletries were distributed to all female students/female inmates present, bringing joy and a sense of care and inclusion. The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by one of the female inmates who expressed deep appreciation to the organizers for their visit, encouragement, and support.

The two committees expressed their appreciation to the Norwegian Embassy and CLEEN Foundation for all the support to make the event possible and successful. The IWD celebration served as a powerful platform for advocacy, encouragement, and reaffirmation of rights. It reinforced the message that every woman and girl, regardless of circumstance, deserves dignity, opportunity, and the chance to thrive.