UYO– THE Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ekaette Fabian Obot, has freed 37 inmates from correctional centres across the state and urged them to rebuild their lives lawfully. During routine visits to the Ikot Abasi, Eket and Ikot Ekpene custodial centres, Justice Obot granted releases on grounds ranging from prolonged detention without trial to ill health and lack of diligent prosecution. A breakdown shows two inmates were released from Ikot Abasi, eight from Eket, and 27 from Ikot Ekpene.
At Ikot Abasi, Nse Aniekan John and Ndifreke Lawrence Kofi, earlier convicted of rape, were granted probation after serving substantial parts of their sentences. The court directed them to report monthly to correctional authorities and maintain good conduct. In Eket, the Chief Judge ordered the release of Mrs. Ekaette Samuel Ibok, a widow detained since 2022 without trial over alleged child trafficking. Investigations revealed she had given out a child as domestic help due to hardship. Justice Obot cautioned her to care for her children and avoid similar actions.
Also freed were several detainees held for years without trial, including Bassey Bassey Okon, detained since 2021 over alleged armed robbery, and others linked to disputed arrests during the EndSARS protests. Additional releases followed findings of weak or unsubstantiated charges and family-related disputes escalated into criminal complaints. At Ikot Ekpene, eight inmates were released on health grounds, while others regained freedom due to lack of prosecution or questionable charges. Cases reviewed included minors and vulnerable persons detained over minor or domestic-related allegations, some held for over five years without trial. Justice Obot described many cases as abuses of the justice process, citing instances where suspects were “dumped” in custody without diligent investigation or prosecution.
The Chief Judge also raised alarm over severe congestion and poor facilities. Ikot Ekpene centre, built for 400 inmates, currently houses over 700, with inadequate water and accommodation. Similar conditions were reported in Ikot Abasi and Eket facilities. She called for urgent reforms, including the establishment of vocational training programmes within correctional centres to promote rehabilitation. Justice Obot further criticised delays by state counsel and urged stricter adherence to due process to prevent unlawful detention.
Call for Action
Stakeholders have been urged to strengthen collaboration within the justice system. In particular, the Akwa Ibom State Criminal Justice Law Working Group is called upon to partner closely with the Chief Judge to: ensure speedy trial of cases, monitor detention practices, prevent abuse of prosecutorial powers, and improve correctional centre conditions. The intervention, observers say, underscores the need for sustained oversight and accountability to protect citizens’ rights and restore confidence in the justice system.
