NBA-SPIDEL visits MSCC Port Harcourt

...Offers legal support to inmates

The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest Litigation and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) visited the Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), *PORT HARCOURT* , Rivers State, as part of efforts to promote access to justice and provide legal assistance to inmates.

The delegation, led by the Chairperson of NBA-SPIDEL, *Prof. Uju Agomoh, was received by the Controller of Corrections, Rivers State Command, *CC RM Williams FCAI* .

The visit was primarily aimed at providing an avenue for inmates to present their complaints and legal challenges, with a view to identifying areas where the NBA-SPIDEL could intervene and provide appropriate legal assistance.

During the engagement, members of the delegation interacted with inmates, listened to their concerns. The team also requested for the list of inmates with option of fines, requiring legal intervention, particularly those seeking assistance in securing bail.

The NBA-SPIDEL delegation assured the inmates that the identified cases would be carefully reviewed and necessary legal steps would be taken to assist deserving inmates within the ambit of the law.

In addition to the legal intervention, the team expressed its commitment to supporting the welfare of inmates by providing some basic items to address identified needs within the custodial centre.

Speaking during the visit, the Controller of Corrections, Rivers State Command, CC RM Williams FCAI, appreciated the NBA-SPIDEL team for its interest in the welfare, legal rights and rehabilitation of persons in custodial centres.

He noted that partnership with relevant stakeholders, particularly the legal Profession, remain vital to addressing issues of access to justice, decongestion of Custodial Facilities and the successful reintegration of inmates back to society.



E-SIGNED:
ASC SUNNY CHIDOM
Public Relations Officer
Nigerian Correctional Service
Rivers State Command