The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Ekaete F-Obot, has concluded her inspection of correctional facilities across the state with the release of 63 additional inmates from the Uyo Custodial Centre, bringing the total number of inmates freed during the exercise to 100.
The latest development follows the earlier release of 37 inmates from custodial centres in Ikot Abasi, Eket and Ikot Ekpene last week as part of a statewide review of inmate cases aimed at decongesting correctional facilities and ensuring justice for inmates who may have been wrongfully detained or held for prolonged periods without trial.
The decision to release the 63 inmates from the Uyo facility came after a detailed review of their cases. The review process involved the Director of Public Prosecution, court clerks, and medical personnel within the correctional system, who worked together to examine the legal, medical and administrative status of the inmates.
According to a statement issued by the judiciary press unit on Wednesday, 24 inmates were discharged on special grounds, while 39 others were granted pardon on compassionate grounds. The compassionate releases were said to include cases involving missing case files, questionable charges, lack of diligent prosecution, prolonged detention without trial, and inmates with serious health conditions requiring urgent medical attention.
The inspection exercise carried out by Ekaete F-Obot is part of ongoing efforts by the judiciary to address congestion in correctional centres and ensure that the rights of inmates are protected in line with the law. Legal experts say such visits by chief judges often help to speed up the justice process, especially for inmates awaiting trial for minor offences or those whose cases have been delayed due to administrative issues.
During the exercise, the Chief Judge emphasized the importance of diligent prosecution and proper documentation of cases, noting that many inmates remain in custody due to avoidable delays, missing files, or lack of legal representation. She reportedly warned that the justice system must not be allowed to punish individuals through prolonged detention without trial.
Officials of the correctional service in the state were also urged to improve record-keeping, ensure timely communication with courts, and work closely with the Ministry of Justice to prevent unnecessary delays in the handling of inmate cases.
The release of the inmates has brought relief to many families, some of whom had waited years for the resolution of cases involving their relatives. Observers say the exercise highlights ongoing challenges within the criminal justice system, particularly issues related to case management, prosecution delays and custodial congestion.
The statewide inspection and release exercise is expected to continue periodically as part of broader judicial reforms aimed at improving the administration of justice and protecting the rights of citizens. With the latest release, the intervention by the Akwa Ibom State judiciary is being seen as a significant step toward decongesting correctional facilities and ensuring that only those with valid and active cases remain in custody while awaiting trial.
