Akwa Ibom Chief Judge Frees 37 Inmates Amid Overcrowding

On Thursday, Justice Ekaet Fabian Obot, the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, ordered the release of 37 inmates from the Ikot Abasi, Eket, and Ikot Ekpen custodial centers. This decision followed a routine inspection of the state's custodial facilities, which began on Monday and is expected to conclude next Tuesday with a visit to the Uyo custodial center.

Among those released, eight inmates were freed on health grounds, while 29 were granted freedom on compassion grounds. Justice Obot highlighted the unconstitutionality of keeping suspects in custody for prolonged periods without trial.

Notably, 18-year-old Chariti Augustin, who had spent a year in custody on theft charges, was released on compassion grounds. She was placed on six months probation.

The Chief Judge also ordered the release of two convicts who had completed their prison terms, emphasizing the importance of good conduct. The overcrowding issue was noted, with the Ikot Ekpen facility designed for 400 inmates but currently housing 700, exacerbated by poor conditions and water shortages.