CEHRAWS, which is committed to upholding the principles of the rule of law, human rights, and law enforcement accountability, stated that its visits to prisons to assess the conditions within the facilities have shown alarming congestion.
A civil rights group, the Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS), has decried the alarming condition of inmates in prison facilities in Abia State, Southeast Nigeria.
CEHRAWS, which is committed to upholding the principles of the rule of law, human rights, and law enforcement accountability, stated that its visits to prisons to assess the conditions within the facilities have shown alarming congestion.
The group in a statement issued on Monday, with accompanying pictures of crowded detention facilities, which was signed by its Executive Director, Okoye Chuka Peter, called on Governor Alex Otti and the Attorney General of the state to take urgent steps to address the alarming state of prisons in the state.
The group noted that overcrowding, inadequate healthcare, lack of access to legal representation, and prolonged pre-trial detention have combined to create a situation that is not only a violation of basic human rights but also undermines the very fabric of justice and fairness that our society should uphold.
"We call on the Abia state government to take a swift intervention to address the urgent need for decongestion by expediting the trial process according to provisions of the state's Administration of Criminal Justice Law.
"Undertake immediate measures to improve the living conditions and access to healthcare, legal representation, and basic amenities within the detention facilities.
"Ensure that the operations of these facilities are transparent, accountable, and consistent with internationally recognized human rights standards," it said.
The rights group expressed hope that the authorities will recognise the urgency the situation deserves and take immediate steps to remedy the dire situation within the detention facilities.
"CEHRAWS remains committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to uphold the values of justice, human rights, and the rule of law," it added.