In a move underscoring his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and social justice, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has inaugurated the Management Board for the Protection of State-Owned Social Homes. The governor also exercised his constitutional powers to grant clemency to 11 inmates across correctional centres in the state.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Government House, Enugu, Governor Mbah described the initiative as a vital component of his administration’s promise to protect the most vulnerable in society and ensure equitable prosperity for all citizens.

“Even when we set ambitious economic growth projections, we made it clear that our development must be inclusive,” the governor said. “We are committed to measuring our success not only by GDP but by how well we uplift those at the margins of society. The vulnerable cannot be left behind.”

The newly constituted board is chaired by the First Lady of Enugu State, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, with the Vice Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, serving as co-Chairman. Other members include Rev. Canon Chibuike Okolo (Vice Chairman), Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, as well as Rev. Sr. Mary Gloria Iloka, Rev. Sr. Veritas Onyemelukwe, Pastor Elias Anyigbo, Mrs. Anna Igbokwe, and Barr. Chidinma Egeonu. The Executive Secretary of the Board is Barr. Uzoama Okeji.

Governor Mbah emphasized that the board will be equipped with the resources, tools, and support necessary to transform state-run social welfare facilities into places of dignity and care.

“We will provide you with everything you need to ensure our people in social homes live in dignity. Your appointment reflects not only our trust but the expectations of the people you serve,” he said.

In her remarks, the First Lady and Chairperson of the Board, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, urged members to discharge their duties with diligence, fairness, and full transparency.

“This is a call to serve the most vulnerable among us—our children, our elderly, and those in dire need. Let us lead with compassion, integrity, and in full compliance with the law,” she said.

Governor Grants Clemency to 11 Inmates

In a related development, Governor Mbah also approved the release of eleven inmates from correctional facilities across the state, acting on the recommendations of the Enugu State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

The clemency, granted under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), follows reports of proven character reform, acquisition of vocational skills, and strong reintegration prospects.

The names of the pardoned inmates include Ugochukwu Oma, Onah Nnamdi, Chiadikobi Onu, Emmanuel Sambo, Emeka Nyia, Ngene Oluebube, Francis Chinecherem, Eze Chigozie, Anthony Tombari, Francis Chibuzor, and Uzoma Nnaoche.

The recommendation process involved collaboration between the Nigerian Correctional Service and several justice-sector partners, including the Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organisation (CAPIO) and the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP).

According to the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Victor Udeh, the clemency represents a second chance for the affected inmates to reintegrate into society as responsible citizens.

“The decision is part of ongoing reforms aimed at decongesting our prisons, promoting justice, and encouraging rehabilitation,” he said.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, who chairs the Advisory Council, noted that the process was thorough and driven by the principles of justice, fairness, and social reintegration.

With these developments, the Mbah administration continues to signal its resolve to build a society anchored on equity, dignity, and the rule of law—where every citizen, regardless of their status, has a chance to thrive.