By Esther Ojochegbe Alexander
The Executive Director of Prison Fellowship Nigeria, Dr. Jacob Tsado, has called on government and society to embrace restorative justice as a central part of Nigeria’s criminal justice system, stressing that inmates should be seen as individuals capable of change rather than permanent offenders.
Dr. Tsado made the appeal on Sunday at the Four Square Gospel Church, Asokoro, during the flag-off of the organization’s annual Week of Prayer.
“We must shift our focus from punishment to genuine transformation,” he said. “Every inmate has the capacity to rebuild their life if given the right support. Restorative justice is not only about reducing crime, it is about healing broken lives and communities.”
The Executive Director explained that the fellowship’s programs are designed to provide rehabilitation, emotional healing, and empowerment for inmates and ex-offenders, while also offering support to victims of crime.
Supporting the call, the Deputy Executive Director, Dr. Elijah Ogunsanya, urged government to prioritize the welfare of inmates, pointing out that harsh prison conditions and lack of reintegration support often lead to repeat offenses.
“If inmates are treated with dignity and equipped with skills, they will return to society better prepared to contribute positively,” Dr. Ogunsanya said.
The Vice Chairman of the fellowship’s board, Engr. Yinka Oyewole, also highlighted the impact of the organization’s outreach, noting that its programs had touched lives across correctional centers in the country.
“We have seen firsthand that transformation is possible. Our work is proof that rehabilitation has a pronounced value that transcends prisons,” Oyewole said.
Prison Fellowship Nigeria is the country’s largest faith-based organization working within the criminal justice system. Its initiatives include skills development, counseling, and advocacy for policies that reduce recidivism.
This year’s Week of Prayer, themed “Captives of Hope,” runs nationwide until August 24 and will feature intercessions, advocacy, and outreach activities focused on justice reform.