Overcrowding and Shortages Plague Correctional Facility in Bayelsa

By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa

The Okaka Correctional Center in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, designed to accommodate 300 inmates, is currently facing severe overcrowding, with over 700 inmates, including awaiting trial and convicted individuals.

The Deputy Controller Of Correction, Medium Security Custodial Centre, DCC Theophilus N. Okoka, who disclosed this when a Nongovernmental organizations, Eunice Nnachi Women Advocacy Foundation, ENWAF paid him a courtesy visit, at Okaka, decried overcrowding and shortages of items.

Nigerian pilot report that, the Okaka Correctional Center in Bayelsa State was officially commissioned and opened in April 2013 with a capacity to house not more than 300 inmates.

Okoka expressed concern about the overcrowding and shortages of essential items such as clothing, food, medicines, and toiletries.

He said, “the facility has been stretched beyond its capacity, leading to significant challenges. Various organizations, including a Non-Governmental Organization, have made efforts to address some of these challenges by donating food items, toiletries, and other essentials to the correctional center.

“We have called for support from the federal government, state government, and the people of Nigeria to alleviate the situation.

“The overcrowding and shortages at the Okaka Correctional Center highlight the urgent need for intervention to improve the living conditions and well-being of the inmates”

Earlier, the CEO of ENWAF, Lady Eunice Nnachi who appreciated his effortless duties promised to work with the facility Boss to alleviate some their challenges.