The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian‑Obot, on Thursday, ordered the release of 37 inmates from the custodial centres in Ikot Abasi, Eket and Ikot‑Ekpene.
The directive was given virtually during her ongoing routine inspection of the state’s custodial facilities, which began on Monday and is expected to end next Tuesday with a visit to the Uyo custodian centre.
Our correspondent reports that of those released, eight were freed on health grounds, while 29 were granted freedom on compassionate grounds and want of prosecution.
Two inmates were released from Ikot Abasi, eight from the Eket facility and 27 from the Ikot‑Ekpene custodial centre.
Speaking during court sessions held at the three facilities on Monday and Wednesday, respectively, the Chief Judge said it was unconstitutional to keep suspects in custody for prolonged periods without trial.
Among those released was 18‑year‑old Charity Augustine, who had spent more than a year in custody on a four‑count charge of stealing.
The judge said Augustine was being released on compassionate grounds, bearing in mind her age and the nature of the items (garri) she was accused of stealing. She added that Augustine would be placed on six months’ probation with an officer assigned to monitor her conduct.appened (EP 381) reviews: Outrage as bullying video from Benin school goes viral
Speaking during court sessions held at the three facilities on Monday and Wednesday, respectively, the Chief Judge said it was unconstitutional to keep suspects in custody for prolonged periods without trial.
Among those released was 18‑year‑old Charity Augustine, who had spent more than a year in custody on a four‑count charge of stealing.
The judge said Augustine was being released on compassionate grounds, bearing in mind her age and the nature of the items (garri) she was accused of stealing. She added that Augustine would be placed on six months’ probation with an officer assigned to monitor her conduct.
Also freed were two convicts at the Ikot Abasi custodial centre, Aniekan John and Ndifreke Koffi, who were released before the completion of their prison terms. They were ordered to report to the facility every three months to confirm good conduct.
The Chief Judge also released some 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 some individuals arrested during the EndSARS protests.
(Punch)
