AN ASSESSMENT OF THE REFORMATION AND REHABILITATION PROGRAMMES OF THE PRISON SERVICE IN THE SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA: IMPLICATION FOR SOCIAL WORK PROFESSION

Abstract

The effect of inadequate reformation and rehabilitation of prisoners within the Nigerian prison seem to be contributory to the continuous increase in crime and recidivism within the Nigerian society. This study examines the adequacy of reformation and rehabilitation programmes of the Nigerian prison using three convict prisons within the southeastern zone of Nigeria. Three states within the zone with high inmate population were purposively selected. A total of five hundred and ninety-seven (597) respondents were selected which comprises three hundred and eleven (311) prisoners and two hundred and eighty-six (286) prison staff, using systematic and stratified random sampling methods. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using Questionnaire and Interview Guide. Quantitative data was analysed electronically using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) while content analysis was used in analysing the quantitative data. Findings revealed that lack of facilities and training materials, lack of skilled personnel, such as correctional social workers and the absence of after-care support systems were the major factors inhibiting rehabilitation and reformation of prisoners. These factors were found to be hinged on lack of funds, corruption and lackadaisical attitude of the government in the affairs of the prison and in the reformation and rehabilitation needs of prisoners. It was recommended among many others that there is the need to provide for more functional educational, skill acquisition/occupational and recreational facilities as well the most reoccurring challenges of the prisoners such as accommodation, feeding, clothing, medical, and all such other facilities. Social work has much to offer in a prison setting especially where prisoners’ reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration is concerned, therefore, there is need for involvement of professionals such as social workers, psychologists, etc in the business of the prison in Nigeria.