The Founder of Pain is a Gift Initiative, Mr. Tosin Imhogiemhe, has called on the Federal Government to take swift action in resolving minor cases in the courts in a bid to address prison congestion and expedite justice.
Imhogiemhe expressed concern over what he sees as a gap between law formulation and enforcement, emphasizing that a significant portion of the prison population, up to 70%, is either innocent or awaiting trial.
During a visit to the Badagry Correctional Centre in Lagos, he urged for a comprehensive approach to the rehabilitation of inmates, going beyond vocational training to include character-building processes that positively transform their minds.
He stated, “Aside from vocational training, they need a character-building class or section that would renew their minds. To change them, we need rehabilitation and sensitisation so that when they are out, they don’t become worse.”
Imhogiemhe called for collaboration between the government, well-meaning individuals, NGOs, and international organizations to support initiatives that aim to transform lives.
He highlighted the importance of government support, saying, “Government plays a huge role in aiding our pursuit. We need partners, government to provide the leverage, avenues, and support us with a rehabilitation centre or funding such that when these people leave the prison, the prison also leaves them, and they go back to fit into society seamlessly.”
He urged individuals and organizations to contribute to helping the less privileged, stating, “It is a personal thing to help the hopeless and helpless in society. Essentially, what we do is to provide psycho-social support to the less-privileged – people with cancer, human immunodeficiency virus, HIV, inmates in prisons, widows, orphans. In one sentence, people who can’t naturally help themselves.”
Regarding a recent visit to the Badagry Correctional Centre, Imhogiemhe shared, “We released four inmates today and gave them some stipends to go home to their families. We are glad and feel fulfilled.”
Reflecting on the origins of his foundation, he explained, “It started with my own personal pursuit. I authored a book titled: ‘Pain is a Gift’ and it metamorphosed into a lot of things. Before I wrote the book, I never appeared on radio or the TV, but after I did, I became a radio and TV presenter. There is hardly a thing that I am today that didn’t emanate from the book.”
Imhogiemhe commended the leadership at the Badagry Correctional Centre for their transparency and dedication, acknowledging the unique challenges they face, such as individuals being detained for minor offenses.
He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to reuniting people with their families during the Christmas season.
