Benue State University, Makurdi

Re-thinking the Role of Family & Community in Rehabilitation of Convicts by Nigerian Correctional Service

Gloria Shajobi-Ibikunle*

Abstract

Children are birthed and reared in families. If convicted and after serving their sentence, they return to their family and community. While in custody, the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) rehabilitates convicts by equipping them with literacy and vocational skills. Despite this, ex-convicts face enormous challenges which include stigmatization, unemployment, lack of accommodation. This paper examined how family and Town unions can play more meaningful roles in rehabilitation and aftercare. The study is mainly doctrinal but includes interviews with relevant persons and Agencies. It finds that family and Town Associations/Unions play strong, supportive roles in community socio-economic development in Southern Nigeria. It recommends the NCoS set up formal linkages to allow such associations if willing play a role in Rehabilitation of Convicts in custody. It should partner with Religious and other Non-Governmental Agencies set up half way houses to ease resettlement challenges. The paper recommends Social Welfare departments of Government handle Aftercare which will allow for NCoS to concentrate on custodial and non –custodial matters.

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