Trinity House Church has donated a N30 million coaster bus to the Ikoyi Correctional Centre in Lagos to ease the transportation of inmates to and from court.
Presenting the bus to the Deputy Controller of Corrections and Officer-in-Charge of the facility, DCC Julius Ogueri, the church’s Senior Pastor, Pastor Itua Ighodalo, said the gesture aimed to enhance operational efficiency, improve inmate welfare, and mark his birthday with a visit to society’s often-forgotten members.
He emphasised the importance of partnerships between faith-based organisations and government institutions in driving positive change, especially in rehabilitation efforts.
“Our gesture promotes collaboration between spiritual bodies and government initiatives. By working together, we can create a better society,” Ighodalo said.
He noted that while the process of providing the vehicle was initially challenging, the church eventually mobilised resources to fulfil the promise. He also commended the efforts of the Federal Government and the Ikoyi Correctional Centre in supporting rehabilitation.
Commending Ogueri for his commitment, Ighodalo described him as a passionate officer who refers to inmates as “students,” underscoring their potential for reform and reintegration into society.
In his remarks, Ogueri expressed gratitude, describing the donation as timely and in line with the Controller General of Corrections’ directive to partner with non-governmental organisations, religious institutions, and philanthropists.
He recalled that Ighodalo had made the promise during his birthday visit to the centre last year. He also addressed earlier speculation that the funds had been misappropriated, saying the delivery of the bus had vindicated him.
Ogueri thanked the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche, for promoting innovation among officers. He also acknowledged the Assistant Controller General in charge of Zone A, ACG Ope Fatinnikun, and Lagos State Controller of Correction, George Daramola, for their support.
He noted that the bus would improve the timely movement of inmates, helping to accelerate court processes and support their rehabilitation.
