Etim Ekpimah
The Paramount Ruler of Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, His Royal Majesty Obong E.C.D Abia, has asked the government to relocate Eket Correctional Centre.
The monarch said this during a courtesy visit by the Controller of Corrections, Julius Ezugwu at his palace on Wednesday, February 2022.
The paramount ruler said Eket Custodial Centre, which was built during the colonial era, was no longer conducive due to urbanization and population explosion.
According to the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Ogbajie Ogbajie, the monarch maintained that there was a need to expand the existing Custodial Centre to accommodate more recreational facilities and a total reformation for the inmates.
He added, “I am aware of your sacrifices and contribution to internal security despite the challenges confronting the Nigerian Correctional Service.”
The royal monarch further solicited more funding for the NCoS to meet the demands of a modern penal administration.
Ezugwu thanked his host for the warm reception and informed His Royal Majesty Obong E. Abia, that he is newly posted to Akwa Ibom State and it was customarily he familiarised himself with correctional formations in the state.
The officer-in-charge of Eket Custodial Centre, Deputy Controller of Corrections, George Kay Njoku also thanked His Royal Majesty for the cordial relationship between officers and the host community, which he said, has improved the rehabilitation of offenders in custody.