Repatriation of 267 Nigerian Prisoners from UK: What Does The Future Hold?

  Ever since the United Kingdom announced its plan to repatriate 267 residents in its prisons, I couldn’t stop my thoughts from resolving the future of these soon-to-be repatriated prisoners. Foreign prisoners are becoming quite pricey in these financially trying times for the UK. I understand that it had to reevaluate its priorities on how its taxpayers’ money is spent – the basis of its revenue. If the UK cannot limit the influx of foreigners entering its country, it would at least take control of foreigners in its prisons. These prisoners, by committing crimes lost their right to fight and be heard. I am still amazed at how much Britain spends to keep each foreign felon for a year; 40,000 euros!!! I am sure the 534 Nigerian nationals in their jails know that this is more than they can bargain for in their own country. Guess how much UK will salvage by sending these 267 prisoners home! How unlucky these chosen ones! They are leaving ‘luxury prisons’ to deal with the overcrowded, filthy, inhumane dungs we call prisons here. I sincerely hope they adapt quickly. I should not go all dim here because UK offers a light at the end of this bleak tunnel. She will give up to a million euros to renovate Nigerian jails and add a wing to Kirikiri Maximum Prison. If the money is used well, the change will be visible to all and will impact greatly on how prisoners are treated in Nigeria. We hope the money will be used exactly for what it is intended for. If not, am I sad for these repatriates! Let me know what your thoughts are on this… Photo Source: timenewsfeed.files.wordpress.com   Mary Odunuga is a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, freelance writer and media consultant for a government agency.