The Order of the Knights of Saint Mulumba (KSM) has expressed serious concerns regarding the deplorable conditions in the nation’s correctional facilities.
This statement was made during a press conference on Thursday in preparation for the 45th Supreme Council Convention, set to occur in Calabar, Cross River State, from November 29th, 2024.
Worthy Supreme Knight of KSM Nigeria, Sir Dr. Charles Mbelede, condemned the outdated and overcrowded prisons, where inmates suffer from neglect. He urged the Federal Government, via the Ministry of Interior, to implement significant reforms in correctional facilities.
Mbelede highlighted the need for more modern prisons, stating that the current ones are insufficient and overstretched. He noted concerning statistics indicating that there are 84,000 inmates this year, with only 27,000 being convicted and the rest awaiting trial—34,767 more than the total capacity of 50,000 in the correctional centres.
“The welfare of inmates must be prioritized. We have instructed our various chapters to enhance their Prisons Apostolates by visiting local correctional facilities to provide charitable items, medical assistance, and legal services to inmates to uplift their spirits. However, these are only temporary measures; real change requires urgent reform,” he emphasized.
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Mbelede also lamented the country’s poor economic situation and urged Nigerian leaders to improve their efforts to change the current trend, stating that a thorough review of existing economic policies is essential to prevent widespread hopelessness among citizens.
“We fully support the Catholic Bishops Conference’s stance on this issue, particularly their urgent call for humane governance.”
Regarding the upcoming convention in Calabar, Mbelede explained that “our conventions are important opportunities for reflection and assessment of the year’s activities within the Order. They also facilitate the ongoing growth and development of our community.”
The convention will officially commence on Friday, November 29th, 2024, with a Concelebrated High Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral Calabar, led by Archbishop Joseph Ekuwem, followed by the opening ceremony, which he will preside over.
The theme for this year’s convention, “Deepening Christian Spirituality and Family Values – Roles and Challenges,” is particularly relevant and vital to our Christian beliefs. It aims to guide believers spiritually and suggest actions to avoid superficial faith. A vibrant discussion on this pertinent topic is anticipated, he asserted.
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