Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge, Justice Ekaete Fabian Obot, has released a total of 44 inmates from correctional facilities across the state during her first inspection visit of 2024.
The released individuals, comprising two females and 42 males of various ages, were accused of minor crimes.
The release came after Justice Obot reviewed the case files and determined that their extended detention without trial had already served as sufficient punishment for offenses such as theft of palm fruits, cassava, and minor assaults.
The breakdown of the releases includes six inmates from Ikot Abasi, five from Eket, 11 from Ikot Ekpene, and 24 from Uyo in Akwa Ibom State. Some inmates were also released on compassionate grounds or due to the lack of prosecution.
Notably, Otuekong Essien, who suffered from severe health issues, and Shadrach Hanson, who had been in custody for over a year for a minor theft, were granted freedom based on their individual circumstances.
Justice Obot emphasized that while she aims to decongest the correctional facilities, she would not release individuals convicted of violent or major crimes. She stressed that justice would be fully applied in such cases.
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Additionally, for those like Kufre Sylvester, who had spent over two years in custody with case files missing, the Chief Judge ruled for their unconditional release to avoid breach of fundamental rights.
The Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge urged the State Controller of Corrections, Julius Ezegwu, to focus on the reformation and rehabilitation of inmates, recommending the provision of skills training and education. She proposed establishing schools within correctional centers to better support younger inmates.
Justice Obot also pledged to request assistance from the governor for providing vehicles and logistical support to improve the functioning of the correctional facilities.
In response, State Controller Ezegwu expressed gratitude for the Chief Judge’s continued engagement and the positive impact of her efforts on the correctional system.
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