Warri, Nigeria — The International Human Rights Commission – IHRC Corporation in Nigeria has formally commended the Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) at the Warri Medium Security Custodial Centre, Mr. Richard Egbede, for his exemplary adherence to international human rights principles and reform-driven leadership within the correctional system.
The recognition follows an independent monitoring mission conducted by the South South Regional Coordinator of the IHRC Special Monitoring Mission (SMM), Comrade Fidelis Onakpoma, as part of IHRC’s ongoing nationwide assessments of human rights compliance in custodial facilities.
The mission was initiated under the directive of H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission of IHRC in Nigeria, and supervised by the SMM National Coordinator, Engr. Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, highlighting IHRC’s long-standing institutional partnership with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).
Commendation for Reform-Oriented and People-Centred Leadership
Leading the IHRC delegation, Comrade Francis Uwa, IHRC SMM Official for Delta State, praised DCC Egbede for cultivating a management culture that balances discipline, rehabilitation, and respect for human dignity.
He noted that the Warri facility reflects “an environment where correction and compassion coexist in line with global standards.”
Comrade Uwa further described DCC Egbede as:
“An exemplary officer whose conduct aligns with the IHRC’s mission of advancing justice, fairness, and humane treatment for all inmates. Our visit to Warri confirms that Nigeria has officers who uphold integrity and professionalism even in challenging environments.”
IHRC Leadership Highlights National Significance
SMM National Coordinator Engr. Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu emphasized that the Warri visit demonstrates IHRC’s proactive strategy to strengthen human rights accountability within correctional centres.
He stated:
“The efforts of DCC Richard Egbede reflect the transformation we envision across Nigeria’s correctional system. He represents a generation of officers who view correctional service as service to humanity, not punishment.”
Endorsing the field report, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah commended the leadership of the Nigerian Correctional Service for fostering an environment where officers such as Egbede can uphold professionalism and compassion.
According to Ambassador Duru:
“The International Human Rights Commission remains steadfast in partnering with the Nigerian government to reinforce the human rights framework within correctional facilities. IHRC will continue to support reform-minded officers whose work strengthens justice and human dignity.”
Role of NCoS and Next Steps in Nationwide Monitoring
IHRC also acknowledged the Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service and the Delta State Controller of Corrections for cultivating institutional conditions that promote accountability, transparency, and rehabilitation-based corrections.
As part of its national mandate, IHRC announced plans to broaden its monitoring and partnership missions to correctional centres across the country, contributing to a stronger human rights culture and improved inmate rehabilitation.
This mission forms part of IHRC’s flagship Correctional Human Rights Strengthening Project (CHRSP) — a long-term initiative to support humane correctional practices and structural reforms throughout Nigeria.
Reported by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria
