In a major step toward decongesting correctional facilities, the Acting Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Hon. Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, has ordered the release of 17 awaiting trial inmates from the Nigerian Correctional Centre in Ado Ekiti and granted bail to 8 others.
The exercise, carried out during his official visit to the facility, is part of his statutory responsibilities aimed at reviewing prolonged detention and ensuring fair access to justice for inmates, especially those held without sufficient evidence or beyond the constitutional time limits.
The Comptroller of Corrections, Mr. Femi Olorunshagba, conducted the Chief Judge round the premises. He disclosed that the facility currently houses close to 500 awaiting trial inmates, including males and females, facing offences ranging from capital crimes to minor infractions.
Justice Ogunmoye’s decisions followed detailed recommendations from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mr. Julius Ajibare, who highlighted instances of lack of evidence and cases where detainees had overstayed the permissible detention period without trial.
“Every decision was based on law and fairness. When the justice system delays or fails to act, it punishes not just the accused but the society at large,” the Acting Chief Judge said.
One inmate’s bail conditions were also reviewed during the visit. The Chief Judge cautioned those released to refrain from returning to crime or disruptive behavior.
“You are given a second chance. Make something positive out of it. If you return to crime, the law will take its full course,” he warned.
He also appreciated the efforts of the Ekiti State Attorney General, Mr. Dayo Apata, SAN; the police; and the DPP in supporting the process of decongesting the centre. Special commendation was given to Mr. Olorunshagba for maintaining a clean and orderly environment for inmates.
In response, the Correctional Comptroller expressed gratitude to the judiciary for the timely visit and thoughtful interventions.
“This act of mercy will bring relief to the inmates and their families. Many of them now have a fresh opportunity to rejoin society and rebuild their lives,” he said.
Justice Ogunmoye was accompanied by other key stakeholders including Mr. Isaac Anifowose, Director of the Public Complaint Commission; Mr. Adeyinka Opaleke, Ekiti Director of the Legal Aid Council; Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Akingbade of the Justice Development and Peace Initiative; NSCDC State Commandant, Mr. Toma Matthew Enya, as well as magistrates, police officers and legal practitioners.
