NHRC and Partners Free Eight Inmates for Nelson Mandela Day in Niger

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and a group called Hope Behind Bars helped free eight inmates from the Suleja correctional facility in Niger State on Wednesday. This was done to mark the International Nelson Mandela Day.

The inmates were released after NHRC and Hope Behind Bars paid their fines set by the courts. Suleja prison is located close to Abuja, the federal capital.

Tony Ojukwu, the Executive Secretary of NHRC, said this act is a strong way to honor Nelson Mandela. Mandela spent 27 years in prison while fighting against apartheid in South Africa.

Ojukwu highlighted the importance of this day, saying, "On Nelson Mandela Day, the world pauses to honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela, a towering figure whose life reminds us that justice, dignity and compassion must extend to everyone."

He mentioned that in 2015, the United Nations General Assembly expanded Mandela Day to focus on humane prison conditions. Ojukwu said, "The recognition of prisoners as continuous members of society and the vital role of correctional service staff as a social service of great importance was broadened."

Benedict Agu, who is Ojukwu's special assistant and heads the monitoring department, represented him at the event. He said adopting the "Nelson Mandela Rules" is a meaningful tribute.

Nelson Mandela Day is celebrated every year on July 18. This year’s theme is, ‘It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.’ Ojukwu noted that the NHRC could not celebrate the day on the actual date. He said, "Today’s commemoration is not about the calendar but about the principles Mandela stood for."

He added, "For us, it is not just a memorial but a reaffirmation of a life lived for the human person, for the values of human dignity and for the principles of freedom."

Ojukwu pointed out that many inmates are in prison because they committed crimes due to poverty. He said, "Most crimes that bring people into custody are often rooted in poverty. When you look at the fines that continue to keep low-risk inmates behind bars, you can see how poverty and inequity sustain overcrowding in our correctional facilities."

He urged institutions to tackle poverty and inequality through real actions, not just by checking detention conditions and making recommendations. He said, "For people of means, it is an invitation to join hands in supporting these efforts, so that custodial centres are not overwhelmed, and society can benefit from the values and contributions of rehabilitated inmates because they still have something to offer."

At the event in Suleja, speakers also discussed the Bangkok Rules. This gives inmates information about their rights and reminds correctional officers of international care standards.

Other partners present included Shamies Unusual Hearts Foundation and Eyesavers Healthcare Initiative (EHI). EHI provided free medical eye care for both male and female inmates. They also gave out care packages, including sanitary towels and toilet rolls.

Sunday Ejeh, the officer in charge of Suleja Correctional Facility, praised the NHRC and its partners for their visit and help. Shedrach Oka, a representative from the Shamies Foundation, encouraged inmates to make the most of the skills training programs. He called for more teamwork between private and public bodies.

Oka said, "Correctional centres are centres of transformation and not just confinement; no one is defined by their lowest moments."

Damien Pogbu, a staff member of the NHRC, explained that the Nelson Mandela principles include 122 rules. He highlighted the rules on freedom from discrimination and torture, and limits on solitary confinement for people with disabilities, children, and the mentally ill.

Pogbu mentioned that incarceration is necessary to protect society and help inmates reintegrate back into it. Pauline Olorunyomi from Hope Behind Bars spoke about the rules for female inmates, emphasizing their unique needs and smaller numbers. She assured female inmates that they "are not forgotten" and noted that the rules cover their admission, healthcare, and how they should be treated with dignity.