RCCG Calls for Prison Reform Over Rising Inmate Population

RCCG Calls for Prison Reform Over Rising Inmate Population

Ariyo Popoola, Chairman of RCCG’s National Prison and Hospital Ministry, urged Nigerian leaders to implement economic and governance reforms that give youths hope and reduce the number of people in correctional centres.

Popoola made the appeal during the ministry’s 2026 conference held at the RCCG Redemption City of God. The event was themed A New Beginning.

Speaking on the challenges facing correctional facilities, he said efforts to reduce overcrowding in prisons would have little impact unless the root causes of crime are addressed. According to him, many young Nigerians struggle with unemployment, low income, limited opportunities, and declining moral values. As a result, many become frustrated and vulnerable to criminal activities.

He stressed that correctional centres are often a reflection of wider social problems. Therefore, he urged government leaders to focus on creating opportunities that restore hope and dignity among young people. He warned that prisons would continue to fill up if these issues remain unresolved.

Furthermore, Popoola expressed concern over the growing number of graduates who are unable to secure meaningful jobs despite years of education. He said the current economic situation has left many young people discouraged about their future. He also criticized what he described as a lack of sensitivity among some public officials, adding that genuine reforms require both accountability and strong political commitment.

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Meanwhile, he highlighted several interventions carried out by the RCCG ministry over the years. These include providing legal support for inmates, paying fines for prisoners who cannot afford them, supporting medical treatment, improving correctional facilities, and helping hospital patients detained because of unpaid medical bills.

In addition, Popoola announced plans to establish a rehabilitation and reintegration centre for former inmates. The proposed facility will sit on 10 acres of land and is expected to cost about N600 million. He explained that the centre will offer temporary accommodation, counselling, vocational training, and educational opportunities to help former inmates rebuild their lives.

According to him, successful reintegration can reduce repeat offences and contribute to national security. Consequently, he appealed to corporate organisations, philanthropists, and well meaning Nigerians to support the project. He also reiterated his opposition to the death penalty, citing weaknesses in the justice system and the risk of wrongful convictions.

He urged the appointment of more judges and the establishment of additional courts to speed up justice delivery. He said a larger judicial workforce would enable faster hearings, quicker rulings, and greater use of alternatives such as bail, fines, and community service.

Moreover, Ajibogun advocated for regular jail delivery exercises by judicial officers. He said this would help address prolonged detention, missing case files, and delayed warrants. He also proposed a performance monitoring system for judges and magistrates to improve accountability and reduce unnecessary adjournments.

While acknowledging the challenges facing the correctional system, Ajibogun noted that many of these issues extend beyond the Nigerian Correctional Service. Therefore, he emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among the judiciary, police, and correctional authorities.

Niyi Adebanjo, Secretary to the RCCG General Overseer, stressed continued outreach in correctional centres and hospitals.

According to him, many individuals find themselves behind bars because of circumstances beyond their control. He maintained that spiritual intervention can bring hope, healing, and transformation to inmates.

Adebanjo concluded by saying that while legal assistance and welfare support remain important, lasting change ultimately comes through spiritual renewal.

 

 

 

 

 

Content Credit: Idowu Adigun

Image Credit: Facebook.com