Archbishop Okeke: Prison Is A Path To Renewal, Not A Dead End
In a powerful Christmas message of hope and redemption, the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Maduka Okeke, has urged inmates to see correctional centres as places of transformation rather than despair.
The Archbishop gave the charge on Christmas Day during his annual outreach to the Onitsha Custodial Centre, where he celebrated Holy Mass with inmates and officers.
He reminded those in custody that incarceration should be a period of reflection, growth and preparation for a better future, stressing that no life is beyond redemption.
Archbishop Okeke encouraged inmates to take full advantage of available educational and vocational programmes, noting that past mistakes do not define a person’s destiny.
He assured them that faith, perseverance and a willingness to change can open doors to new beginnings.
He also called on custodial officers and caregivers to uphold compassion and dignity in their treatment of inmates, describing humane care as key to successful rehabilitation.
Reaffirming his long-standing commitment, the Archbishop donated food items, toiletries, footwear and other essentials to mark the Christmas celebration.
Speaking during the event, the Officer-in-Charge of the centre, Deputy Controller of Prisons Anthony Chidi Eke, praised the Archbishop for establishing a skills acquisition centre and supporting inmates’ education through vocational training and open university programmes.
The outreach once again underscored the Archbishop’s belief that correctional centres can serve as bridges to renewal and reintegration rather than symbols of lost hope.
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