PRAWA Commits to Human Rights, Criminal Justice Reforms

PRAWA Commits to Human Rights, Criminal Justice Reforms

The Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action, PRAWA, has pledged to sustain its advocacy works on implementing criminal justice and human rights reforms, together with the proper rehabilitation of inmates, by key stakeholders.

The organisation’s Founder and Executive Director, Dr. Uju Agomoh, stated this on Tuesday at a press conference to herald the celebration of PRAWA’s 30 years anniversary.

The non-governmental organisation, which was established on December 16, 1994, promotes human rights for people in prison and helps those who have survived prison to successfully integrate into the community.

As part of commemorating PRAWA’s three decades of existence, Agomoh announced that an array of programmes, which include network meetings among select Nigerian universities, a national and sub-national dialogue on effective correctional management and a week-long exhibition of products and PRAWA’s photos/videos/documentaries, have been planned in Abuja.

There will also be a display of apology letters by ex-inmates across the world, capacity-building workshops/trainings, and the launching of a youth fund to support the reintegration of persons who have finished serving their jail terms, according to her.

She explained that PRAWA, since its creation, has been instrumental in promoting legal and institutional reforms to ensure the humane treatment of prisoners.

“It has worked closely with stakeholders like the Nigerian Correctional Service, judiciary, and the police to improve the administration of justice in the country.

“Furthermore, PRAWA, over the years, collaborated with international organizations, including the United Nations and the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims, to combat torture and support survivors with rehabilitation programs.

“Likewise, PRAWA has conducted extensive studies on criminal justice and human rights issues, including the well-being of children and young adults in conflict with the law. These findings have influenced policy and advocacy for system-wide improvements.

“PRAWA, I must also say, and very proudly too, has expanded its reach by engaging in regional peace and security reforms, working in South Sudan and with ECOWAS to address broader justice and rehabilitation challenges.”