A Federal High Court sitting in Jalingo has ordered the release of 13 inmates who had been detained at the Taraba State Correctional Centre for periods ranging from one to six years without trial.
Their freedom came after a suit filed by human rights lawyer, Barrister John Nkemnagum Okezie, who offered them legal representation pro bono, accusing the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) of breaching their fundamental rights.
In his judgment, Justice Maskur Salisu condemned the prolonged detention of the inmates without trial, describing it as a blatant violation of their constitutional rights.
“The prolonged detention of citizens without trial is not only unconstitutional but an affront to human dignity,” the judge declared.
He ordered their immediate release and awarded a total of ₦48m in damages to the 13 freed inmates.
The court officially enforced the order on November 3, 2025.
Justice Salisu further cautioned security agencies to operate within the confines of the law and uphold the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
Barrister Okezie told journalists that his motivation was to help decongest overcrowded prisons and ensure justice for the poor.
“This was a pro bono effort to make sure justice is not reserved for only those who can afford it,” he said.