Why Female Prisoners Suffer from Depression

Kemi, a female inmate at Ondo Female Prison, shared her distressing experience, revealing she was unaware of her pregnancy until her transfer to the facility on November 24, 2020…..For More READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ▶▶ ...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING.>>

In the overcrowded prison, Kemi and 16 others were housed in a cramped room with minimal amenities. They slept on foam mattresses placed directly on the floor and received just one uniform to wear throughout the week…..For More READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ▶▶

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

The prison lacks basic health facilities, with no hospital or sickbay available. Kemi, the only pregnant inmate, received no medical attention for herself or her baby and was provided insufficient and unappetizing food, including beans, garri, and tasteless soyabean soup…..For More READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ▶▶

Data from the World Prison Brief shows a stark gender disparity among Nigerian prisoners, with men comprising 98.2% of the population and women only 1.8%. Female inmates face numerous challenges, including mental health issues, overcrowding, inadequate welfare, and limited access to education and healthcare.

Reports indicate that female inmates in Nigeria experience heightened difficulties, especially pregnant and nursing mothers. Overcrowded facilities like Kirikiri and Numan Old Prison are stretched beyond capacity, accommodating over double their intended number of female inmates.

The increase in female incarceration rates, outpacing that of men from 2013 to 2020, highlights a growing issue. Inadequate healthcare, poor sanitation, and insufficient support for female inmates exacerbate their suffering.

The Nigerian Correctional Service Bill of 2019 mandates comprehensive services for all inmates, but the implementation of gender-specific policies remains limited. Experts call for targeted policies and increased support for female inmates, including better nutrition, healthcare, and psychological support.

The Center for Gender Economics in Africa advocates for gender-responsive budgeting to address these disparities, emphasizing the need for improved conditions and resources for female inmates, including healthcare and post-release support.

Stakeholders, including NGOs and faith-based organizations, are urged to collaborate on enhancing the welfare of female inmates, ensuring they receive proper care and support during and after their incarceration.