FRIDAY March 14, 2025 |TheNewsDESK
The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaette Obot, has ordered the release of 55 inmates across four correctional centers in the state, citing health concerns, prolonged detention, and lack of diligent prosecution.
The mass release followed Justice Obot’s routine visit to custodial facilities across the three senatorial districts, which began on Wednesday, March 12, and concluded on Friday, March 14, 2025.
Breakdown of the release indicates that four inmates regained freedom from the Ikot Abasi custodial center, two from Eket, 11 from Ikot Ekpene, while Uyo correctional center recorded the highest number, with 38 inmates discharged.
During a special court session at the facilities, the Chief Judge reviewed case files and observed that many inmates had been detained beyond the legal limits applicable to their alleged offenses. While some were discharged on compassionate and health grounds, others were freed due to lack of diligent prosecution.
Addressing the freed inmates, Justice Obot urged them to turn a new leaf and avoid any actions that could lead to their return to custody.
She also expressed concern over missing case files, which have left some inmates languishing in detention longer than their potential sentences if convicted.
“I charge prosecutors to ensure that no one is denied justice or has their fundamental human rights violated due to administrative lapses,” she stated.
The Controller of the Akwa Ibom Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Mr. Frank Okonkwo, commended the Chief Judge for her consistent intervention and goodwill towards inmates.
He also highlighted key challenges facing the correctional facilities, including dilapidated infrastructure and lack of logistics for transporting inmates to court.
