The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCS) has sparked debate with its decision to ban wheelchairs and crutches for inmates in correctional facilities.
This policy, which has been in place for years, was defended by Superintendent of Corrections Fredrick Chukwu at a stakeholders’ meeting on the Abia Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) 2017, held in Umuahia.
Chukwu explained that the measure aims to prevent inmates from turning metallic objects, such as wheelchair parts, into weapons during disputes.
“We don’t allow metallic objects in the cells because, during confrontations, a wheelchair or crutch could be used to harm others,” he said. “Before you know it, an inquest will be sent to us, and we’ll have to answer questions.”
However, Chukwu assured the public that the Correctional Service provides special care for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
“We don’t abandon PWDs in custody. We ensure they receive the necessary assistance. Women and other vulnerable inmates are also given special attention,” he stated.
Stakeholders Call for Humane Reforms
The announcement stirred reactions at the meeting, where stakeholders discussed ways to improve the criminal justice system in Abia State.
Faith Nwadishi, Executive Director of the Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA), criticised the ban, calling for a more humane approach to correctional facility policies.
“Efficient and equitable administration of justice must uphold fundamental human rights,” she said. “PWDs should not be deprived of their dignity or basic tools for mobility.”
Nwadishi challenged the Disability Commission to investigate and address the issue, stating, “This is a clear case of potential rights violations. Immediate action is required to protect PWDs in custody.”
Justice System Strains Under Pressure
Chukwu also highlighted operational challenges faced by the NCS, including inadequate vehicles to transport inmates to court.
“There are 54 courts in Abia State, but we only have seven operational vehicles, and only four are functional,” he revealed. “This affects our ability to produce inmates in court when required.”
He further noted that court sessions running both morning and afternoon create additional strain for officers.
“Some magistrates now sit in the afternoon due to a lack of courtrooms,” Chukwu lamented. “This doubles our workload and expenses since we must transport inmates twice daily.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Abia Ministry of Justice, Chibuzo Ehiemere, acknowledged the system’s struggles but highlighted progress made since the ACJL was enacted in 2017.
“We’ve seen some improvements, but collaboration among security agencies, judicial officers, and other stakeholders is crucial,” she said.
Pushing for Juvenile Justice Reforms
Ehiemere revealed that the state government is considering the establishment of a juvenile correctional facility to cater to underage offenders.
“We are having conversations about this,” she said, responding to inquiries from participants.
The Abia Chief Judge, Justice Lilian Agbai, represented by Justice Agwu Umah Kalu, emphasised the need to decongest prisons.
“Everything we’re working on aims to reduce the overcrowding in correctional centres,” he said.
Improving Access to Justice
The CTA, alongside the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (ROLAC) and the European Union, received commendations for their efforts to enhance access to justice in Abia State.
Nwadishi explained the ACJL’s goals, including speeding up trial processes, improving case management, and ensuring fair treatment of all individuals.
“We need a justice system that is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the people,” she said.
Highlighting the significance of collaboration, Nwadishi urged stakeholders to work collectively.
“No matter how good a law is, without cooperation, its aims will be defeated,” she noted.
Stakeholders Demand More Resources
Representatives of security agencies and civil society groups at the meeting called for urgent reforms and resource allocation.
Okorie Chinoso Emmanuel of the Civil Defence Corps advocated for the establishment of special courts, such as juvenile courts, to speed up trials.
“Periodic reviews of strategies by security agencies and other stakeholders are also necessary to improve outcomes,” he said.
Traditional ruler HRH Eze Okorie Chijioke stressed the importance of enforcing court orders.
“Courts should compel the state to obey their directives,” he said, adding that failure to do so undermines the justice system.
