The attorney general and commissioner for justice in Ogun, Oluwasina Ogungbade, says the government will expedite action in fast-tracking inmate trials in courts to decongest prisons.

Mr Ogungbade said this on Thursday during a visit to Ibara and Oba prisons in Abeokuta.

He noted that the present administration was committed to a renewed focus on addressing the long-standing issues plaguing correctional centres.

The attorney general said that all efforts would be intensified to improve services at the correctional centres. He noted that the visit was necessitated by the need to assess the facilities, gain insights into issues affecting them, and serve as a beacon of hope for both the staff and the inmates.

“Various initiatives are in the pipeline to streamline legal processes and expedite the appearance of prisoners in courts for hearing. The ministry is working out strategies and efforts in facilitating the smooth transfer of prisoners to court when needed.

“This approach will allow us to understand the multifaceted issues affecting the correctional system and formulate targeted strategies for improvement,” he said.

The commissioner called for synergy between the ministry and correctional centre authorities to uphold the rights and dignity of inmates while ensuring public safety.

He added that the government remained committed to championing reforms that promoted fairness, efficiency and rehabilitation within the criminal justice system.

Saliu Adepoju, the controller of the prison in Ogun, appreciated the commissioner and his entourage for the visit, pledging to be more dedicated to upholding the ethics of the facility.

(NAN)