As part of its mission to provide channels through which people can access information and learning tools, Zaccheus Onumba Diabiaezue Memorial Libraries (ZODML) recently launched a prison knowledge centre (PKC) at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre. This was to complement the launch in February 2012 of a mobile library with more than two thousand books serving prisons.
The PKC has seven computers, a printer, photocopier and scanner, and over 2,000 books. It is located in the newly refurbished library within the prison compound. Each computer is equipped with more than 500 e-books including the Bible and Koran, Microsoft Office Suite, educative games such as Chess and Scrabble, Dictionaries and Encyclopedias.
Read also: ZODML launches Nigeria’s biggest free e-library in memory of Zaccheus Dibiaezue
Ifeoma Esiri, co-chair and trustee, ZODML in her welcome address at the event highlighted the motto of the Nigerian Prison Service – “protect society: reform the prisoner” and how it points to two important reasons prisons exist: “Society has to be kept safe from those that would cause harm, and prisoners must leave the confines of prisons rehabilitated so that they can contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
Esiri emphasised ZODML’s desire to align itself with this task and its commitment towards channeling resources to help with its realisation in order to build “on the great foundation laid by well-meaning organisations like the Muharram Sisters’ Foundation.”
In his part, the chief judge of Lagos State, represented by GA Safari, the Lagos State High Court chief registrar, who was appreciative of the initiative, urged others to follow suit.
He revealed the state government’s plans to make life better for inmates, including ensuring that no one is detained beyond the 24 hours specified in the penal code and that court sittings are extended to include Saturdays.
The inmates delighted the audience with their musical and dramatic talents. There was a play performed by students of the Muharram Sisters’ Education Centre. The plot of the play was centered on freedom and justice and placed emphasis on the importance of making the most of the learning resources available at the correctional centre.
