The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Ekaete Fabian-Obot, on Thursday ordered the release of 37 inmates from custodial centres located in Ikot Abasi, Eket, and Ikot-Ekpene.
The directive was issued virtually as part of her ongoing inspection of correctional facilities across the state, which began on Monday and is scheduled to conclude next Tuesday with a visit to the Uyo custodial centre.
Out of the inmates released, eight were freed on health grounds, while 29 were discharged on compassionate grounds and due to lack of prosecution.
Specifically, two inmates were released from Ikot Abasi, eight from Eket, and 27 from the Ikot-Ekpene facility.
During court sittings held at the centres on Monday and Wednesday, the Chief Judge emphasised that it is unconstitutional to detain suspects for extended periods without trial.
One of those released was 18-year-old Charity Augustine, who had spent over a year in custody facing a four-count charge of stealing.
The judge stated that Augustine was granted freedom on compassionate grounds, considering her age and the nature of the alleged offence involving garri. She added that Augustine would undergo six months of probation under supervision.
Also among those freed were two convicts from the Ikot Abasi custodial centre, Aniekan John and Ndifreke Koffi, who were released before completing their sentences. They were directed to report to the facility every three months to confirm good conduct.
Additionally, the Chief Judge discharged several detainees who had been awaiting trial for over three years on minor offences such as fighting, assault, and theft of farm produce. Some of those released had also been arrested during the EndSARS protests.
She urged legal practitioners and law enforcement officers to act diligently and professionally to avoid unnecessary delays in the justice system and help reduce congestion in correctional centres.
“Most of the charges are trumped up; some lack prosecution. Therefore, go home, be of good behaviour and don’t engage in any acts that will bring you back again.
“I release you unconditionally because it is unconstitutional to keep you for too long without trial,” the Chief Judge said after reviewing their case files.
Justice Fabian-Obot also called for support to help discharged inmates return to their homes, warning against releasing them without assistance.
Earlier, officials overseeing the custodial centres raised concerns over poor facility conditions, citing severe overcrowding.
At the Ikot-Ekpene custodial centre, Deputy Controller of Corrections Boniface Momoh disclosed that the facility, built to house 400 inmates, currently accommodates over 700.
He further noted challenges including inadequate water supply and lack of operational vehicles, worsened by high fuel costs, and appealed for government intervention to address the situation.
