Monarch Seeks Custodial Facility For Delta Capital
Asaba’s Status as State Capital Sparks Call for Correctional Facility
THE Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Epiphany Azinge, has renewed calls for the establishment of a Nigerian Correctional Service custodial centre in Asaba, arguing that every state capital should host a correctional facility as part of an effective justice administration framework.
The monarch made the appeal while receiving the newly appointed Delta State Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Chuke Chike Idoko, and members of his management team during a courtesy visit to the royal palace.
Welcoming the delegation, the traditional ruler congratulated the controller on his appointment and described the visit as an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between traditional institutions and correctional authorities.
Monarch Highlights Justice Administration Challenges
Speaking during the meeting, the Asagba stressed that the absence of a correctional facility in Asaba continues to create logistical and administrative difficulties for the justice system.
According to him, inmates are routinely transported from correctional centres in communities such as Ogwashi-Uku to attend court proceedings in the state capital, resulting in additional costs, security concerns and operational challenges.
The monarch argued that the presence of a custodial facility in Asaba would significantly improve the efficiency of judicial processes while reducing the burden associated with inmate transportation.
He further advocated reforms that would place greater emphasis on rehabilitation, restitution and the successful reintegration of inmates into society.
Call for Correctional Service Reforms
Beyond infrastructure concerns, the monarch also renewed calls for broader reforms within Nigeria’s correctional system.
He suggested that correctional services should be moved from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List, allowing state governments to play more direct roles in the management, funding and administration of correctional facilities.
According to him, such a framework would enable states to address local challenges more effectively while improving inmate welfare and institutional efficiency.
The monarch noted that effective law enforcement and justice administration require close coordination among the judiciary, law enforcement agencies and correctional institutions.
Correctional Controller Seeks Royal Support
In his remarks, Controller Idoko thanked the monarch for the warm reception and acknowledged his longstanding support for public institutions within the state.
He disclosed that since assuming office, he had embarked on inspections of correctional facilities across Delta State to assess operational challenges and identify areas requiring intervention.
The controller also appealed for the monarch’s support in advocating the establishment of a correctional facility in Asaba, noting that the current arrangement places significant pressure on correctional personnel responsible for transporting inmates to and from court proceedings.
He expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between traditional institutions and government agencies would help advance reforms aimed at improving correctional administration across the state.
Focus on Public Safety and Rehabilitation
The discussions also touched on concerns surrounding public safety, youth involvement in illicit drug activities and the broader role of correctional institutions in promoting rehabilitation.
The monarch pledged continued support for initiatives designed to strengthen the justice system while encouraging regular engagement between correctional authorities and community stakeholders.
The visit concluded with prayers for the success of the new controller’s tenure and renewed commitments to cooperation aimed at improving correctional services in Delta State.
