Senior lawyer Kayode Ajulo has proposed the sale of certain underutilized correctional facilities across the country as a means to generate funds for the education sector.
The constitutional expert, who had previously recommended the introduction of electronic tags for pre-trial inmates to address issues of overcrowding in correctional centers, reiterated his stance in a letter addressed to Bola Tinubu.
The letter, made public on Friday, emphasizes Mr. Ajulo’s belief in repurposing resources to address pressing societal needs, with a particular focus on bolstering the education system.
This latest advocacy comes after his earlier call for innovative measures to alleviate the strain on correctional facilities and enhance the overall justice system.
“I write on the need to sell some of the correctional centres in prime areas to raise funds for education in Nigeria,” the senior advocate stated in the letter.
Mr. Ajulo underscored the urgent requirement for increased funding to bolster the advancement of education in the nation.
He highlighted the myriad challenges confronting Nigeria’s education sector, such as insufficient infrastructure, restricted resources, and unequal access to high-quality education.
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Moreover, he pointed out that these barriers have impeded the progress and potential of Nigerian youth, curtailing their ability to realize their full capabilities.
“To address this funding gap, I propose considering the sale of underutilised assets, particularly the correctional centres, located in prime areas. Such places include Ikoyi Prisons and others in high-value locations in Nigeria,” the letter explained.
According to Mr. Ajulo, the Ikoyi Prison holds an estimated market value of N50 billion, emphasizing that the sale of comparable centers across Nigeria could generate approximately half a trillion naira.
He noted by “divesting such properties, we can generate a substantial influx of funds that can be allocated to improving educational infrastructure.”
According to his perspective, implementing this measure would improve the standard of education and offer scholarships to deserving students nationwide.
“I understand that the decision to sell correctional centres requires careful consideration, taking into account the legal implications and security concerns,” the senior lawyer admitted.
Mr. Ajulo expressed his understanding of the imperative to maintain a balanced criminal justice system.
He articulated that by conducting thorough assessments and strategic planning, Nigeria could harmonize addressing the financial needs of education with ensuring an effective correctional system.
Commending the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his commendable policy implementation and steadfast dedication to his role, Mr. Ajulo highlighted the minister’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the conditions and welfare of inmates in correctional centers.
According to Mr. Ajulo, the minister’s efforts reflect a sincere concern for the well-being and rehabilitation of individuals within the correctional system, aligning with the principles of justice, fairness, and humanity.
Mr. Ajulo emphasized that recognizing and celebrating the minister’s accomplishments would not only uplift his morale but also serve as inspiration for other public officials to fulfill their duties with similar dedication and patriotism.
In September, state governors were advised to formulate and implement laws to facilitate prison decongestion.
“We have a large number of awaiting trial inmates in Nigeria. About 70 percent of people in prison are awaiting trial, and we also have data that 90 percent of people we find in our facilities are actually state offenders,” stated Funke Adeoye, executive director of Hope Behind Bars Africa.
(NAN)