The age-old question of whether criminal behaviour is shaped more by society or by individual choice took centre stage at the Agodi Correctional Facility in Ibadan, where inmates engaged in a thought-provoking debate aimed at promoting reflection and rehabilitation.
The event, organised with the support of non-governmental organisation J-SEDA, brought together inmates and correctional officials to examine the factors that contribute to crime and the responsibilities of both society and individuals in addressing them.
Participants arguing from the societal perspective contended that poverty, unemployment, poor upbringing and limited access to opportunities often create conditions that push individuals toward criminal activities.
Those defending the individual perspective, however, maintained that despite prevailing social conditions, people must ultimately be held accountable for the decisions they make, insisting that personal responsibility remains central to the issue of crime.
Organisers said the programme was designed to encourage critical thinking, learning and personal transformation among inmates, while creating a platform for meaningful conversations around rehabilitation and reintegration.
Speaking after the debate, the Officer-in-Charge of the facility, Mr. Adekunbi Sunday Abiodun, praised the initiative and underscored the importance of educational and developmental programmes in correctional centres.
He noted that such engagements help foster positive attitudes among inmates and contribute to the broader goal of preparing them for life after incarceration.
The programme concluded with a call for stronger collaboration among communities, government institutions and civil society organisations to tackle the root causes of crime and support the successful reintegration of former inmates into society.
