Writing By Nasir Malali; Editing By Godwin Duru
As part of his annual Christmas outreach, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah has paid a pastoral visit to inmates at the Nigeria Correctional Facility in Sokoto.
Addressing the inmates, Bishop Kukah encouraged them to use their time in custody as an opportunity for personal growth and renewal so that upon reintegration into society, they would become positive agents of change.
Accompanied by priests and religious members of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Kukah held extensive listening sessions with the inmates, meeting male and female inmates separately.
Some of the inmates shared personal stories, including claims of innocence and concerns about prolonged detention despite not being found guilty.
He assured them of his commitment to engage relevant professionals responsible for correctional care and to advocate with government authorities on their behalf, especially in cases involving claims of innocence.
The visit concluded with prayers, words of encouragement, and renewed hope, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to standing with the marginalized and forgotten, particularly during the Christmas season.
NASIR MALALI
