Fifteen inmates at the Warri Correctional Centre in Delta State have regained their freedom after a humanitarian intervention by the non-governmental organisation, Foostodey, and the suspended Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Reuben Izeze.

The beneficiaries were released on Monday, August 24, 2026, after Foostodey, through its “Ukodo Na Tevwe” welfare initiative, settled court-imposed fines running into millions of naira.

The intervention followed Izeze’s visit to the correctional centre, where he reportedly discovered that more than 20 inmates remained in custody largely because they could not afford to pay fines imposed by the courts.

According to reports, some of the inmates had been convicted and sentenced to various terms of imprisonment with options of fines.

However, their inability to raise the required amounts meant they remained behind bars despite having the option of securing their release through payment.

Moved by their plight, Izeze brought the situation to the attention of Foostodey, which subsequently stepped in to pay the outstanding fines and facilitate the release of 15 of the affected inmates.

Speaking after the inmates regained their freedom, Delta State Special Assistant on Community Relations, Tisha Ejekanshe Matthew, who spoke on behalf of Foostodey and Izeze, said the intervention went beyond securing the inmates’ release.

He said the initiative was aimed at restoring hope, dignity and the opportunity for the beneficiaries to reconnect with their families and rebuild their lives.

Matthew described the intervention as an example of how targeted humanitarian support could make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable people, particularly those whose continued incarceration was linked to their inability to meet court-imposed financial obligations.

He said the beneficiaries had been given a second chance to return to their families and contribute positively to their communities.

The released inmates expressed appreciation to Foostodey and Izeze, saying the intervention had given them an opportunity to reunite with their loved ones and start afresh.

They also commended Izeze for drawing attention to their plight and expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government, led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for what they described as its people-oriented disposition and concern for citizens’ welfare.

Reflecting on their experience in custody, the beneficiaries said their time behind bars had given them an opportunity to reflect on their actions and the consequences of wrong choices.

They pledged to remain law-abiding and responsible members of society, promising to use their freedom to rebuild their lives, support their families and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Mass Mobilisation, Pastor Vincent Udume Odogbor, also provided transport logistics to enable the released inmates to return safely to their respective communities.