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Akwa Ibom Chief Judge Grants Clemency to 54 Inmates.
Hon. Justice Ekaete Fabian Obot, Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, concluded an inspection of four correctional facilities (Ikot Abasi, Eket, Ikot-Ekpene, and Uyo) on March 14, 2025, resulting in the release of 54 inmates. The releases were predicated on various factors, including health concerns (leprosy, tuberculosis, kidney failure, HIV/AIDS), lack of prosecution, alleged fabricated charges, and compassionate circumstances.
Notably, among those released were a nursing mother and an individual with mental health challenges, the latter whom the court ordered be handed over to his family for appropriate medical care. Justice Obot expressed concern regarding prolonged pre-trial detention for minor offenses, citing it as a violation of inmates’ rights and an impediment to justice. She further urged the Directorate of Police Prosecution to expedite case processing and addressed the issue of missing case files. Several released inmates shared stories of unjust incarceration, highlighting the need for improved oversight within the justice system.