The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian-Obot, has ordered the release of 37 inmates from custodial centres across the state as part of an ongoing inspection of correctional facilities.
The inmates were freed from facilities in Ikot Abasi, Eket, and Ikot-Ekpene during the exercise, which began earlier in the week and is expected to conclude with a visit to the Uyo custodial centre.
Of those released, eight were granted freedom on health grounds, while 29 others were discharged due to lack of prosecution or on compassionate grounds. A breakdown shows that two inmates were released from Ikot Abasi, eight from Eket, and the remaining 27 from Ikot-Ekpene.
Speaking during court sessions held inside the facilities, the Chief Judge stressed that it is unconstitutional to keep suspects in detention for long periods without trial.
One of the cases that stood out was that of 18-year-old Charity Augustine, who had spent over a year in custody on allegations of stealing garri. Taking her age and the nature of the offence into account, the judge ordered her release on compassionate grounds. She is, however, to remain on probation for six months under the supervision of a designated officer.
In another instance, two inmates at the Ikot Abasi centre — Aniekan John and Ndifreke Koffi — were released before completing their sentences. They have been directed to report back to the facility every three months to confirm good behaviour.
The Chief Judge also approved the release of several suspects who had been awaiting trial for more than three years over minor offences such as fighting, assault, and theft of farm produce. Some of those freed were among individuals arrested during the EndSARS protests.
She urged law enforcement officers and legal practitioners to be more diligent in handling cases, warning that unnecessary delays contribute to overcrowding in correctional centres.
Many of the charges, she noted, were either weak or lacked proper prosecution. She advised the released inmates to stay out of trouble and avoid actions that could bring them back into custody.
Justice Fabian-Obot also raised concerns about the welfare of those released, calling for arrangements to ensure they can return safely to their homes rather than being left stranded.
Officials overseeing the custodial centres used the opportunity to highlight the difficult conditions they are working under. They described the facilities as overstretched and struggling with limited resources.
At the Ikot-Ekpene centre, Deputy Controller of Corrections Boniface Momoh revealed that the facility, originally built to house 400 inmates, is currently holding over 700.
He added that, beyond overcrowding, the centre is grappling with inadequate water supply and a shortage of operational vehicles — challenges made worse by the rising cost of fuel.
Momoh appealed for urgent government intervention, urging the Chief Judge to draw the attention of Governor Umo Eno to the situation.
The exercise underscores ongoing efforts to decongest correctional facilities while addressing co
