The Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Ekaete F. Fabian-Obot, has ordered the release of 37 inmates from three correctional centres across the state as part of ongoing efforts to decongest custodial facilities and uphold constitutional rights.
The releases were approved during virtual sessions held on Monday, March 16, and Wednesday, March 18, 2026, covering the Ikot Abasi, Eket, and Ikot Ekpene correctional centres. At the Ikot Abasi facility, two inmates were granted probation and directed to report every three months to enable authorities monitor their conduct.
At the Eket centre, eight inmates regained their freedom on compassionate grounds and due to want of prosecution.
The largest number of releases occurred at the Ikot Ekpene custodial centre, where 29 inmates were freed. Among them, eight were released on health grounds, while it was reported that three other inmates with serious health challenges had died prior to the ongoing inspection. Nineteen others were discharged for reasons including missing case files, compassionate considerations, and want of prosecution. Some of those released had spent more than three years in custody awaiting trial.
Speaking during the exercise, Justice Fabian-Obot emphasized that it is unconstitutional to detain suspects for prolonged periods without trial. She urged law enforcement officers and legal practitioners to be more diligent in handling cases to avoid unnecessary delays that contribute to overcrowding in correctional facilities. She also cautioned against the filing of frivolous or trumped-up charges.
Addressing the released inmates, the Chief Judge advised them to maintain good behaviour and refrain from actions that could lead to their return to custody, noting that their release was granted in the interest of justice and fairness.
Meanwhile, officers in charge of the correctional centres decried the poor state of facilities. The Deputy Controller of Corrections at Ikot Ekpene, Boniface Momoh, highlighted the severe overcrowding at the centre, revealing that a facility originally built to accommodate 400 inmates currently houses over 700.
He also pointed to challenges such as water shortages and the lack of operational vehicles, worsened by the high cost of fuel.
Momoh appealed to the Chief Judge to draw the attention of the state government, led by Umo Eno, to the urgent need to address the deteriorating conditions in correctional centres across the state.
