Oluwatoyin Bayekun, founder of Friends’ Fellowship International, has expressed concern over the high number of inmates awaiting trial at the Agodi Custodial Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State.
According to Bayekun, popularly known as Woli Arole, approximately 1,200 inmates at the facility are yet to stand trial.
Speaking with journalists after donating various items to the inmates on Thursday, Arole described the situation at correctional facilities nationwide as dire, urging the Federal Government to address the challenges faced by inmates and improve the state of these facilities.
He stated, “One thing that is crucial to us is the belief that everyone deserves hope, love, and happiness. Our mission is to extend support to both the inmates and those caring for them. Their wellbeing is of utmost importance.”
He added, “We aim to make a meaningful impact on society beyond teaching and preaching, spreading love and hope to every inmate. This initiative will not stop in Ibadan; we intend to replicate it across Nigeria and, if possible, beyond the nation.”
Arole also highlighted the role of his initiative, Hope Beyond Walls, in addressing the issue of awaiting trial inmates. “There are 1,200 inmates awaiting trial here. Through our initiative, we plan to hire lawyers to secure bail for those eligible, ensuring everything is done properly and free of charge,” he said.
