The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian‑Obot, on Thursday ordered the release of 37 inmates from custodial centres in Ikot Abasi, Eket, and Ikot‑Ekpene.
The directive was issued virtually during her ongoing inspection of the state’s custodial facilities, which began on Monday and will conclude next Tuesday with a visit to the Uyo custodian centre.
Of those released, eight were freed on health grounds, while 29 were granted freedom on compassionate grounds or due to lack of prosecution. Specifically, two inmates were released from Ikot Abasi, eight from Eket, and 27 from Ikot‑Ekpene.
Speaking during court sessions at the three facilities, Justice Fabian‑Obot emphasized that it is unconstitutional to detain suspects for prolonged periods without trial.
Among the released was 18‑year‑old Charity Augustine, who had spent over a year in custody facing a four‑count charge of stealing garri. She was released on compassionate grounds and placed on six months’ probation under supervision.
Two convicts at Ikot Abasi, Aniekan John and Ndifreke Koffi, were also released before completing their sentences and are required to report to the facility every three months to confirm good conduct.
The Chief Judge additionally ordered the release of suspects who had been awaiting trial for more than three years on minor offences, including fighting, assault, and stealing farm crops. The group also included individuals arrested during the EndSARS protests.
Justice Fabian‑Obot urged lawyers and police officers to uphold professionalism to prevent delays in court processes and help decongest correctional centres. She warned, “Most of the charges are trumped up; some lack prosecution. Therefore, go home, be of good behaviour, and don’t engage in acts that will bring you back. I release you unconditionally because it is unconstitutional to keep you too long without trial.”
She also called for support to help released inmates return home safely, cautioning that they should not be left stranded.
Earlier, officers in charge of the three centres highlighted the poor conditions of the facilities. At Ikot‑Ekpene, Deputy Controller of Corrections Boniface Momoh said the centre, built for 400 inmates, was holding over 700. He cited shortages of water and operational vehicles, worsened by high fuel costs, and appealed to the Chief Judge to draw Governor Umo Eno’s attention to the crisis.
