The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaete Fabian-Obot, has ordered the release of 37 inmates from custodial centres across the state, citing prolonged detention and lack of diligent prosecution. The directive was given during her virtual inspection of facilities in Ikot Abasi, Eket, and Ikot-Ekpene, part of an ongoing statewide review of correctional centres.

Of those released, eight were freed on health grounds, while 29 were discharged on compassionate grounds or for want of prosecution. Among them was 18-year-old Charity Augustine, held for over a year on a four-count charge of stealing, who was released with a six-month probation. Other beneficiaries included suspects awaiting trial for minor offences and some arrested during the EndSARS protests.

Justice Fabian-Obot condemned extended pre-trial detention, urging legal practitioners and law enforcement to act diligently to prevent unnecessary incarceration. She also called for support systems to reintegrate released inmates and highlighted the overcrowding and poor conditions in custodial centres, urging Governor Umo Eno to intervene.