Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The reintegration of ex-convicts into society is a critical aspect of the criminal justice system in Nigeria. The aftercare services provided to individuals upon their release from prison play a significant role in determining their successful reintegration. This survey research aims to investigate the current state of aftercare services and reintegration programs for ex-convicts in Nigeria. The study will utilize a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Quantitative data will be gathered through surveys administered to ex-convicts, aftercare service providers, and relevant stakeholders. The surveys will focus on assessing the availability, accessibility, and effectiveness of aftercare services, as well as the challenges faced by ex-convicts during the reintegration process. Qualitative data will be collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with a purposive sample of ex-convicts and key informants involved in aftercare services. These interviews will explore the experiences of ex-convicts during their transition from prison to society, as well as the perspectives of service providers on the existing aftercare programs. The findings of this research will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the current aftercare services and reintegration programs in Nigeria. By identifying gaps and challenges in the system, the study aims to inform policy recommendations and interventions to improve the support provided to ex-convicts post-release. Overall, this survey research seeks to contribute to the enhancement of aftercare services and reintegration programs for ex-convicts in Nigeria. By shedding light on the experiences and needs of ex-convicts, as well as the perspectives of service providers, the study aims to facilitate the successful reintegration of individuals into society, reduce recidivism rates, and promote a more effective and humane criminal justice system in the country.

Thesis Overview

1.1 Background to the Study

1.2 Statement of the Problem

1.3 Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this study is to examine the aftercare service and reintegration of ex-convicts in Nigeria, with particular reference to Akwa Ibom State. Specifically, the objectives of the study are:

1. 1. 1. To examine the obstacles to reintegrating ex-convicts in Akwa Ibom State.
      2. To ascertain the state of reformation and rehabilitation programmes in Nigeria Prisons Service in Akwa Ibom State.
      3. To ascertain the efficacy of the aftercare service in Akwa Ibom State

1.4 Research Questions

1. 1. 1. What are the obstacles to the reintegration of ex-convicts in Akwa Ibom State?
      2. What is the state of reformation/rehabilitation programmes in Nigeria Prison Service in Akwa Ibom State?
      3. How effective are the Aftercare Services in Akwa Ibom State?
         

         1.5 Research Hypotheses

      4. There is no relationship between the quality of reintegration programmes in the prison and successful reintegration into society after discharge.
      5. There is no relationship between the condition of prisons and successful reintegration into society after discharge.

1.6       Significance of the Study
The findings of this study will help other researchers to carry out a qualitative and comprehensive analysis of aftercare service in other states of the federation. The result of this study will help to further educate the academic community on Nigerian prisons service strategic roles and challenges. It will give the prisoners an insight of what they will face on being released as such they could be motivated to engage in occupational and vocational training in order to make them self-reliant on discharge. It will make government to take steps in putting up a legal framework for comprehensive reform of the Nigerian prison system. The study will further assist the government to formulate crime control policy. The present policy of the government is to get criminals out of circulation by imprisonment. Less attention is paid to what happens when the convicted prisoner is released back into the society.
1.7       Scope and limitation of the Study
The study is delimited to the aftercare unit of prison in Uyo, Eket, Ikot Ekpene, Abak and Ikot Abasi. Ex-prisoners, Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), Employers of Labour and Community leaders in Akwa Ibom State were involved in the study. This study is limited to Akwa Ibom State. The reason for choosing Akwa Ibom State includes its proximity to the researcher, and the familiarity of the researcher with the area which facilitated the collection of data.
1.8       Definition of key concepts
Aftercare services: This is a scheme introduced by the Nigerian prison service for the treatment and rehabilitation of discharged prisoners. The scheme is aimed at facilitating the re-integration of ex-convicts into the society through collaboration with NGOs, Employers of labour, community leaders etc.