Cross River Chief Judge Frees 124 Awaiting Trial Inmates

.As Anambra CJ grants bail to 41, discharges 3

BY SEGUN ADEBAYO, ABUJA – The Chief Judge of Cross River State, Justice Michael Edem has ordered the release of 124 awaiting trial inmates with lesser offences in exercise of his constitutional duties during a visit to Calabar Prisons.

He said the order was constitutionally executed based on merit as most beneficiaries of the gesture were released on health grounds and under-age issues

Justice Edem said those released on medical grounds were certified by the command Medical personnel, Dr Etinan Ndon. 

In his remarks, the Cross River State Controller of Prisons, Mr Imaikop Jimmy Ndaekong commended the Chief Judge for his efforts and concern to the welfare of prison inmates in the state.

In attendance were the Controller of Prisons, Cross River State Command; DCP Godwin Onokohwomono, the officer in charge of Calabar Prisons; the Medical personnel, DCP Etinan Ndon; the officer in charge of welfare, DCP A.B. Odey and other members of the State judiciary. 

In a related development, the Chief Judge of Anambra State, Justice Peter Umeadi in exercise of his judicial powers also granted bail to 41 and discharged three awaiting trial inmates during the goal delivery exercise conducted in all the prisons in the state recently. 

This came as a response to the several appeals to him to assist in decongesting the prisons by the Controller of Prisons Anambra State, Barr. Nwakeze Emmanuel.

A statement by the Prison Command Public Relations Officer, ASP Ekezie Francis said the goal delivery witnessed the release of awaiting trial inmates who due to lack of diligent prosecution have been in custody for years.

Francis said; “Some have even stayed beyond what could have been their maximum sentence if they have they been convicted of the charge against them.

Others, who benefited from the exercise, include the juvenile, sick, aged, females and the mentally unstable amongst others.