Akwa Ibom Chief Judge Frees 63 Inmates, Total 100 This Year

On Wednesday, the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Ekaet Fabian F. Obot, announced the release of 63 inmates from the Uyo Custodial Centre, bringing the total number of inmates freed this year to an unprecedented 100.

This decision followed a comprehensive review of cases, which included input from the Director of Public Prosecutions, court clerks, and medical personnel within the correctional system. Among the released inmates, 39 were granted pardon on compassionate grounds, while 20 suffered serious health conditions, including Godwin Franci Etim, who battles tuberculosis.

Notably, Magdalen Bassei Edet was released after serving 10 years of her sentence, with an additional two years for separate charges. The Chief Judge emphasized the importance of maintaining good conduct post-release and warned that any criminal activity could lead to re-incarceration.

The visit also highlighted the overcrowding issues at the custodial centre, which was built in 1912 and currently houses over 1,600 inmates.