The Real Life International Foundation (DERLIF) and stakeholders gathered on Monday for the annual “Podium for Social Justice” event, addressing pressing national social justice issues.
The conference aimed to facilitate discussions and propose solutions to Nigeria’s societal challenges.
In his keynote address, Convener and Director, Ambassador Felix Akpoi, emphasized the platform’s goal: “Enforcing social justice in our immediate society.” He highlighted DERLIF’s motto, “Value for Human Life,” and its reform efforts in prisons, education, gender equality, and religious tolerance.
“The Foundation has been actively involved in promoting social justice, particularly in prisons. We have visited several prisons, including Kuje, Suleja, and Keffi, to provide support and advocate for reform,” Ambassador Akpoi said.
“Our recent book, ‘The Innocent Prisoner,’ sheds light on the plight of wrongly convicted individuals and underscores the need for prison reform.”
Ambassador Akpoi stressed the need to review the Prison Act, citing the importance of decongesting prisons. He commended the Nigerian Police and correctional facilities for improvements but noted lingering trust and corruption issues.
Nigerian Correctional Service Controller General Haliru Nababa, represented by DCG Abolade Benson, lamented the stigmatisation and societal rejection forcing freed inmates to return to facilities.
“The society is not ready to accept them, and this hinders their reintegration,” Nababa said. “We urge Nigerians to embrace ex-convicts and provide opportunities for their rehabilitation.”
Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, represented by ACP Tino Dangana, appealed for understanding, emphasizing the police’s role in arresting and charging suspects.
“We have improved in protecting suspects’ rights, but there is still a disconnect between law enforcement and the judiciary. The maximum duration a court can grant the police to remand a suspect is two weeks. We urge the public to desist from hounding our men to undertake the task of the court.” Egbetokun said.
President Bola Tinubu and Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo were praised for reviewing the feeding allowance of inmates nationwide to N1,250 per day.
“This development demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving the lives of inmates and promoting social justice,” Ambassador Akpoi said.
Akpoi emphasized the need for collective action to address social justice issues.
“We must work together to create a just and equitable society. We urge Nigerians to join us in this quest for social justice,” he said.
The event, held at the NAF Conference Center in Abuja, brought together dignitaries, including, Ambassador of Belgium, representative of the Nigerian Correctional Service, inspector General of Police respectively, other esteemed stakeholders.
The “Podium for Social Justice” event serves as a catalyst for meaningful discussions and sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s social challenges. DERLIF remains committed to promoting social justice and advocating for reform.
