Uyo: The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom, Justice Ekaette Obot, has concluded a three-day visit to correctional centres, resulting in the release of 55 inmates across the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, 18 of the 55 inmates were released due to health concerns. During the visits, four inmates were released from the Ikot Abasi custodial centre, two from the Eket centre, 11 from the Ikot Ekpene centre, and 38, including one nursing mother, from the Uyo custodial centre. The visits spanned from Wednesday, March 12, to Friday, March 14, covering the three senatorial districts of the state.
The chief judge noted that many offenders were held for minor offences and had remained in custody longer than necessary, had they been convicted. Releases were granted on compassionate and health grounds, as well as due to insufficient prosecution efforts. A notable case involved Friday Okoro at the Ikot Ekpene centre, who had been detained for over three years without trial for stealing coconuts from his cousin.
Justice Obot urged the released inmates to maintain good behaviour and avoid actions that might lead to their return to custody. She expressed concern over missing case files, which resulted in some individuals being detained longer than their potential sentences. She emphasized the importance of diligent prosecution and ensuring that the accused are not denied justice or their fundamental rights.
Mr Frank Okonkwo, the Controller of Correctional Centre, Akwa Ibom Command, expressed gratitude to the chief judge for her regular visits and support to the state’s custodial centres. He also pointed out challenges such as deteriorating facilities and inadequate logistics for transporting inmates to court, appealing to Governor Umo Eno for additional support and assistance to the centres.