The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian-Obot, has ordered the release of 37 inmates from correctional facilities across the state, citing prolonged detention and weak or non-existent prosecution in many of the cases.
The decision was delivered virtually on Thursday during an ongoing inspection of custodial centres in Ikot Abasi, Eket, and Ikot Ekpene.
The inspection exercise, which began earlier in the week, will conclude with a final visit to the Uyo facility.
Of the inmates released, eight regained freedom on medical grounds, while the remaining 29 were discharged due to compassionate considerations and lack of diligent prosecution.
A breakdown shows that two inmates were freed from Ikot Abasi, eight from Eket, and the majority—27—from Ikot Ekpene.
During court sittings held within the facilities, the Chief Judge strongly criticised the practice of detaining suspects for extended periods without trial.
She described such actions as unconstitutional, stressing that justice must not be delayed or denied.
Compassionate Grounds
Addressing the freed individuals, she urged them to embrace a law-abiding life, noting that several of the charges brought against them lacked substance or proper follow-through by prosecuting authorities.
One notable case involved 18-year-old Charity Augustine, who had spent over a year in detention over allegations of stealing garri.
Taking into account her age and the minor nature of the offence, the judge granted her release on compassionate grounds, placing her on a six-month probation with supervision.
In a separate development, two convicted inmates in Ikot Abasi—Aniekan John and Ndifreke Koffi—were released before completing their sentences.
They are required to report back to the facility every three months as part of a monitoring arrangement.
The exercise also secured freedom for several detainees who had spent more than three years awaiting trial for relatively minor offences, including assault, fighting, and theft of farm produce. Some individuals arrested during the EndSARS protests were also among those discharged.
Justice Fabian-Obot called on law enforcement agencies and legal practitioners to improve their efficiency in handling cases, warning that delays contribute significantly to overcrowding in correctional facilities.
The Support System
She also emphasised the need for support systems to help reintegrate former inmates into society, including providing transportation to help them return home safely.
Meanwhile, officials at the custodial centres raised concerns over worsening conditions.
At the Ikot Ekpene facility, Deputy Controller of Corrections, Boniface Momoh, disclosed that the centre—built to accommodate 400 inmates—currently holds more than 700.
He highlighted major challenges such as inadequate water supply and the absence of operational vehicles, issues compounded by rising fuel costs.
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Momoh appealed for urgent government intervention and urged Governor Umo Eno to address the deteriorating state of correctional facilities in the state.