Nigerian afro-dancehall artiste, Lamboginny has opened up on why he dressed in prisoner’s apparel to a UN conference in United States.
The artiste was denied entry at the event because he dressed like a prisoner.
Less than a month later, Lamboginny got another invitation by the United Nations Global Communication Department to be a speaker at the Civil Society Conference in Salt Lake, Utah, US.
According to The Punch, the Artiste disclosed that he wanted to draw the world’s attention to the poor states of prisons in Nigeria and across Africa.
He said, “I wanted to draw the world’s attention to the poor state of prisons in Nigeria and across Africa. I wanted to use the UN platform to plead with the global community to have a forgiving heart towards anyone returning from prison. Let’s put an end to the stigmatisation of ex -convicts and build a peaceful inclusive society leaving no one behind.
“When I got denied entry into the UN conference the first time, it showed me how much society doesn’t want anything to do with anyone returning from prison. Consider how they felt seeing me wearing the uniform and imagine what the real inmates go through. But, I’m happy the UN finally gave me a chance to deliver my speech dressed as a prisoner. My interview was also published on the UN News website.”
He continued, “My driving force is firstly my love for all humanity l, regardless of religion, culture, nationality or class. Secondly, it breaks my heart to see thousands of inmates awaiting trial for years without knowing their fate. The prison is not a dumping ground; it’ s supposed to be for a correctional purpose. Most importantly, I believe in second chances and I think most inmates deserve one.”
By Tobi Olusola