Civil society group laments poor conditions of Ilesha Correctional Centre

By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

The urgent need for the Osun State Government to address the deplorable conditions of inmates at the Ilesha Correctional Centre has been emphasised by a civil society group.

Reports indicate that inmates awaiting trial at the facility are in dire need of basic amenities such as potable water and essential infrastructure.

A delegation of civil society leaders from across the country, who visited Osun State to assess Governor Ademola Adeleke’s performance as he marks his second year in office, expressed grave concern over the state of the correctional centre.

Speaking at a press conference in Osogbo, the leader of the group, Comrade Declan Ihekaire, flanked by two other members, described the conditions at the facility as appalling. He called on the state government to urgently provide the necessary facilities to improve the welfare of the inmates.

His words: “The condition of the Ilesha Correctional Centre is not good enough. During our visit, we observed the state of the facility, and it was evident that urgent intervention is needed. These inmates deserve a better quality of life, especially as they are presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

“We are a group of selected civil society leaders on a review and assessment mission to Osun State. Our aim is to hold leaders accountable and ensure the delivery of good governance.

“We are not affiliated with any political party or partisan caucus. We are veterans of the pro-democracy movement in Nigeria and have a history of activism.

“Over the past week, we have toured major towns in Osun State, including Ife, Ede, Ilesha, Osogbo, and Ifon-Osun. We conducted an unguarded inspection of various projects under the current administration.

“We also engaged with residents in some local government areas who shared their experiences of good governance under Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration.”

Comrade Ihekaire acknowledged that the government has implemented numerous infrastructural and human development projects while maintaining a people-friendly approach that values citizens’ opinions and critiques.

He added:”These achievements are commendable and reflect the governor’s commitment to fulfilling his promises.

“It is on record that during the previous administration, we conducted a similar review. From our unbiased perspective, we can boldly state that Governor Adeleke’s administration has achieved significant milestones and deserves commendation for its efforts so far.”

The group highlighted their attendance at an expanded town hall meeting on 27th November 2024, where Governor Adeleke presented his scorecard. They matched their on-site findings with the governor’s claims and described the results as overwhelmingly positive.

“Our findings show that the current government enjoys unparalleled support from the people, as evidenced by the enthusiasm displayed by citizens during our activities. This affirms Governor Adeleke’s high popularity and strong grassroots influence.

“Based on these findings, we urge the governor to remain steadfast in his commitment to good governance and to avoid distractions. He must continue to uphold his high service delivery standards and expand the scope of his democratic achievements.”