Our justice system is literally jailing people for being poor. Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr., who represents Cross River South, called this out after visiting the Calabar Correctional Centre. He said it is a massive injustice that inmates are stuck inside for years just because they cannot pay small fines. Ekpenyong argued that being broke should not equal a life sentence. He was there with his wife, Bella Ekpenyong, and some other people for an end-of-year outreach.
The senator also talked to inmates facing more serious charges. He told them to focus on good behavior and use the rehab programs. He suggested they try to learn new things and get ready for life after release. Ekpenyong gave props to the correctional officers, too, calling their work noble and saying they deserve more support. Some prisoners who got their fines paid by his team were super thankful. They called it a miracle and said it gave them hope and a shot at freedom again.
The senator also talked to inmates facing more serious charges. He told them to focus on good behavior and use the rehab programs. He suggested they try to learn new things and get ready for life after release. Ekpenyong gave props to the correctional officers, too, calling their work noble and saying they deserve more support. Some prisoners who got their fines paid by his team were super thankful. They called it a miracle and said it gave them hope and a shot at freedom again.
