Mr. Nse Essien, a member of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly (PDP-Onna Constituency) has released 12 inmates in Uyo Prison who could not meet their conditions.
Essien stated this while performing the final kick-off of the football match between “Chelsea and Manchester United” at the Uyo Correctional Center on Sunday.
He said 12 inmates got their freedom after paying N1.5 million to secure bail.
According to him, he has been rescuing inmates for more than seven years as a member of the state council.
“I have celebrated this day with inmates, so far, in the last seven years, I have paid 177 inmates to regain their freedom.
“Today, I added 12 more after paying N1.5 million, making a total of 189 inmates,” Essien said.
The MP appreciated the sacrifices of the workers at the center and prayed that God Almighty would bless and reward them for their selfless service.
He urged the inmates not to see the current situation as the end of the world, adding, “it is better to learn lessons, reform, be citizens and ambassadors of Nigeria when we get out of the centre.
“The correctional center is a place for reform and you shouldn’t see it as the end of the world; instead see it as a way to change your ways, learn some critical lessons and become a better member of society.
“I have to respect the staff of the center for their professional conduct and I pray to God to bless them for their sacrifice for humanity.
“You have to obey the authorities you have appointed, pray hard and be a good member of society in the future,” Essien said.
Earlier, Mr. Ebereonwu Ogueru, the Assistant Superintendent of Correctional Center commended the contribution of the member of parliament to remain a compassionate father and friend.
He said the contribution of MPs at the center cannot be underestimated.
Ogueru said the two-term House of Assembly member has also donated trophies to the winners, including N50,000 cash prize for the winner, N30,000 for the runne and 20,000 for finishing third.
He thanked the parliamentarians for awarding cash prizes and medals to top scorers, referees, best goalkeepers and most valuable players.