By Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
In continuation of his yearly Christmas outreach, the Bishop of Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah Thursday paid a pastoral visit to inmates at the Nigeria Correctional Facility, Sokoto.
Bishop Kukah who was accompanied by priests, religious, and members of the lay faithful of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto was warmly received upon arrival by the Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Sokoto State Command, alongside other officers on duty.
Typical of the annual visit, Bishop Kukah held separate extensive listening sessions with both the male and female for about three hours, during which the respected outspoken religious leader heard their experiences, challenges, and living conditions within the facility.
While some of inmates took advantage of the session to shared their personal stories, including claims of innocence and concerns about prolonged detention despite not being found guilty.
Some of the inmates also used the avenue to passionately appeal to Bishop Kukah to lend his voice to the Federal Government and relevant authorities, seeking possible pardon or a review of their cases.
Responding to the visit, Sokoto State Correctional Center spokesperson appealed for improved amenities within the facility and requested support for skills acquisition, handwork, and vocational training, which would help inmates prepare for life after incarceration.
Addressing the inmates, Bishop Kukah encouraged them to use their time in custody as an opportunity for personal growth and renewal, so that upon reintegration into society, they would become positive agents of change.
Kukah further assured them of his commitment to engage relevant professionals responsible for correctional care and to advocate with government authorities on their behalf, especially in cases involving claims of innocence.
A statement by the Director of Communications, Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Fr. Pascal Salifu noted that
the visit concluded with prayers, words of encouragement, and renewed hope, adding the inmates were assured of the Church’s commitment to standing with the marginalized and forgotten, particularly during the Christmas season.