The Imo House of Assembly on Tuesday passed a resolution urging the state Governor, Hope Uzodimma to establish a mini industry at the Nigerian Correctional Service in the state.
The house made the resolution following a motion sponsored by Mr Chisom Ojukwu (APC-Nkwere) during the plenary session of the house.
While presenting the motion, Ojukwu noted that the establishment of a mini industry at the centres would provide a unique opportunity for the rehabilitation and training of inmates.
According to him, the initiative will not only equip inmates with valuable skills but also provide a steady workforce for the industry as well as economic growth of the state.
The lawmaker further said that countries like Burkina Faso had successfully implemented similar initiatives, demonstrating the potential for economic growth and social rehabilitation.
“If the initiative is implemented and sustained, it will create an effective parole system for the decongestion of correctional centres and easier reintegration of inmates into the society, thereby reducing the likelihood of re-offence.
He, therefore, prayed the house to urge the governor to direct the relevant ministries and agencies to conduct a feasibility study and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to set up the necessary infrastructure for the establishment of the mini industry at the correctional center in the state.
Ojukwu also prayed the governor to direct the Ministry of Justice in collaboration with the Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment, and Youth Development to develop the necessary legal and operational framework for the successful implementation of the initiative.
Speaking in support of the motion, Mr Ikenna Ihezuo said that the inmates would be encouraged to develop themselves to ensure that they fully reintegrate into the society after their release from custody.
Also contributing to the motion, the Deputy Speaker, Mr Amarachi Iwuanyanwu (Nwangele), said that the state would gain from the venture as the inmates would be released to the society as skilled workers.
Mr Kennedy Ibeh (APC-Obowo), said establishing such an industry would facilitate the translation of the inmates’ abilities to engender development in the state.
Following contributions and votes by others and in favour of the motion, the Speaker, Mr Chike Olemgbe (APC-Ihitte Uboma) ruled in favour of the prayers of the motion.
The speaker also directed the Clerk, Mrs Chinelo Emeghara to convey the resolution to the governor and other relevant agencies and ministries.