46 Inmates Stranded as Vehicles Unavailable for Court

Chief Superintendent of Corrections Samuel Bassey reported that 46 inmates awaiting trial at the Medium Security Correctional Centre in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, are unable to attend court hearings due to non-functional vehicles. Bassey disclosed this during a courtesy visit from the Eket Federal Constituency Media Professionals forum.

Some inmates have not appeared in court since being brought in from Nsit Ubium Local Government Area in 2023. Bassey explained that the facility has resorted to hiring minibuses from local parks, which poses risks.

He emphasized the challenge of delivering justice when inmates cannot be presented in court. The facility has written several letters to authorities for operational vehicles but has received no response.

Bassey also raised concerns about the infrastructure, noting that heavy rains have damaged roofs, exposing inmates to harsh weather. He acknowledged that the Federal Government is adequately feeding inmates and providing medical services.

Enobong Nsimah, Chairman of the Media Professionals, proposed collaboration for legal services and skill acquisition training for inmates.