By Chinedum Treasure
Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Anambra State Chapter has handed over multimillion naira building complex comprising classroom blocks and Unity Chapel to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS).
The facilities were commissioned/dedicated by the PFN National President, His Eminence Bishop Francis Wale Oke who was ably represented by PFN National Deputy President, Rev. Dr. Cosmas Ilechukwu.
The structures located at the Medium Security Custodial Center Onitsha were formerly handed over to Controller General NCS, Sylvester Nwakuche, represented by Assistant Controller General of Corrections, Zonal Coordinator Zone M, Enugu, Prisca Oku.
According to PFN Chairman Anambra State, Bishop Moses Ezedebego, this Landmark project which took about one year and seven months to accomplish was born during a visit to the Onitsha Correctional Center (OCC).
“During the visit, we saw the passion of these inmates to continue their education against all odds. Education as we all know is a light that dispels darkness of ignorance.
“By God’s Grace, this school and chapel project was conceived not merely as a building of bricks and mortar but a center of hope, learning, discipline, character formation, transformation and spiritual renewal.
“May every student who sits in these classrooms discover new purpose, embrace new hope and prepare to re-enter society as responsible, productive and God fearing citizens,” Ezedebego said.
The PFN boss also promised to sink a potable water borehole for the OCC inmates, saying, “Anambra PFN has a vision to replicate such school blocks/unity chapel project at other Custodial Centers at different parts of the state.”
In his sermon, PFN National President’s representative, Rev Dr. Cosmas Ilechukwu argued that every human being was made in the image and likeness of God, original meant to reflect God’s image.
“Chapel is a symbol of God’s presence. The worst prison is an uneducated mind. Circumstances of life make people inmates but the real identity is the life with God.
“The chapel and the classroom blocks for education will help to recalibrate the mindsets of the inmates for better and purposeful lives,” he said.
Earlier, Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche appreciated landmark facilities, commending the PFN Leadership for the vision, sacrifice and commitment.
“This Landmark initiative represents a shining example of faith based collaboration with government in promoting humane Custodial reforms.
“It is well established that access to education and faith based support reduces re-offending and prepares inmates for successful reintegration into society,” he added.
A PFN Stakeholder, Bishop Emmanuel Obiora of the Life of Faith Gospel Assembly, advised both inmates and staff of the Custodial Center to utilize the building complex to better their lives.
“The Classroom blocks are where the inmates that have enrolled in school as students can go in, sit down and read without pressure or distractions.
“At the same time they have the upper room chapel where they have opportunity to pray and relate with their maker.
“Let all the inmates and those working in the Onitsha Corrections center maximize this opportunity to make judicious use of these facilities, that is when the building is said to be serving its purpose,” he said.
An ex-inmate, Dr David Molapo from South Africa who later rose to become a top Government official despite the fact that he suffered depression, attempted suicide and being incarcerated was an encouragement to the inmates.
“Once there is life, there is still hope for one to become what God designed him or her to become despite one’s mistakes or present condition,” he said.
Highlights of the event include the commission, dedication and handover of the building complex keys proper to NCC, drama and dance presentation from the male and female inmates.
