JUST IN: SOOF Secures Release of 13 Keffi Inmates to Mark Founder’s Birthday
By OGB Joseph, Abuja
The Sunday and Omoikhere Orianran Foundation (SOOF) has secured the release of 13 inmates from the New Keffi Medium Security Custodial Centre in Nasarawa State after paying their court-ordered fines and compensation.
The intervention was part of activities marking the birthday celebration of the foundation’s founder, Dr. Rose Orianran-Anthony, on May 1.
Speaking during the event, the Officer-in-Charge of the custodial centre, Chief Superintendent of Corrections Samaila Bulus, praised the foundation for its humanitarian gesture and support for the Nigerian Correctional Service.
Bulus said partnerships with organizations such as SOOF are critical to the Service’s ongoing transition toward a more rehabilitative and corrective system.
He noted that the custodial centre now places greater emphasis on mentorship, vocational training, and educational opportunities through collaborations with institutions such as the National Open University of Nigeria.
Commending the inmates for their good conduct, Bulus urged the beneficiaries to become responsible citizens upon their release.
“This kind gesture has made our work easier and has given these young men another opportunity to rebuild their lives,” he said.
Speaking on the motivation behind the intervention, Dr. Orianran-Anthony, who also serves as Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said the outreach reflects the Nigerian culture of compassion and communal responsibility.
“This is a place many people rarely remember. People often visit orphanages and widows, but these inmates are also part of our society. If we fail to help and rehabilitate them, the cycle may continue,” she said.
She stressed that government alone cannot shoulder the burden of rehabilitation and reintegration, calling on well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organizations to support correctional facilities across the country.
Dr. Orianran-Anthony disclosed that the foundation has developed a post-release support plan for the beneficiaries to aid their successful reintegration into society.
According to her, the foundation will monitor and mentor the released inmates to ensure they remain on the right path, while also facilitating family reunification for those abandoned or forgotten by relatives.
She added that financial assistance would be provided to beneficiaries who acquired vocational skills during incarceration to help them establish small businesses and become self-reliant.
As part of the outreach, SOOF donated food items, clothing, toiletries, and medical supplies to the custodial centre.
A medical team led by Dr. Charles Ojeabuo also conducted a health awareness session for inmates, emphasizing the importance of personal hygiene and proper hand washing.
The team further donated essential medications, including antibiotics and anti-malaria drugs, to the facility’s clinic.
Board member of the foundation, Dr. Peter Orianran, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to raising responsible citizens through rehabilitation and empowerment initiatives.
He also commended the Officer-in-Charge of the centre for maintaining professionalism and creating an environment that supports transformative interventions.
The 13 beneficiaries are expected to regain their freedom on Monday, with the foundation expressing optimism that their stories will inspire others still in custody to embrace positive change and rehabilitation.
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