CurrentReport Blog Abia State’s Chief Judge, Justice Lilian Abai, has granted freedom to five awaiting trial inmates and granted bail to fourteen others at the Nigeria Correctional Centre in Umuahia. This decision, made during a jail delivery exercise on Wednesday, is part of ongoing efforts to alleviate overcrowding in correctional facilities across the state.
Justice Abai’s move to release certain inmates highlights a commitment to ensuring the rights of detainees are respected while addressing the issue of delayed trials. The Chief Judge noted that some of the released inmates had spent over six years in prison, with no witnesses presented against them during that period. Additionally, some individuals were granted release on health grounds, showcasing a balanced approach to justice that considers both legal rights and humanitarian concerns.
Efforts to Reduce Overcrowding and Promote Justice
In her address, Justice Abai emphasized the importance of decongesting correctional facilities across the state to improve conditions and ensure the fair treatment of inmates. By granting bail and freedom to those who have been detained for extended periods without trial, she aimed to address both the backlog of cases and the need for swift justice.
As part of the measures to streamline the judicial process and reduce logistical challenges, Justice Abai also ordered that the chief magistrates from Ikwuano and Umuahia South Magisterial Districts sit regularly at the correctional center. These sessions are scheduled to occur at least once a week, which will help minimize delays in bringing inmates to court and speed up the judicial process for those awaiting trial.
A Call for Diligence in Judicial Duties
Justice Abai urged the magistrates to be diligent in their duties to ensure timely trials and to minimize the delays that have contributed to overcrowding in correctional facilities. She stressed that while the court system must function efficiently to uphold the rights of detainees, those released must also be reminded of the importance of reintegrating into society and adhering to the law.
“The released inmates must turn a new leaf and be law-abiding citizens,” Justice Abai warned. “There may not be another opportunity for them if they are found guilty of any offence in the future.” This cautionary note underscores the importance of rehabilitation and the opportunity for a fresh start granted to those who are released.
NBA Umuahia Branch Supports Effort
The Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Umuahia Branch, Uche Igwe, commended the Chief Judge for the successful jail delivery exercise. He described the action as part of the statutory duties of the Chief Judge and expressed gratitude for its positive impact. Igwe also emphasized the need for continuous efforts in improving the judicial process and ensuring that inmates receive fair treatment under the law.
The efforts of Justice Lilian Abai in granting freedom and bail to awaiting trial inmates at the Nigeria Correctional Centre in Umuahia reflect a significant step toward improving the justice system in Abia State. By taking action to reduce overcrowding and expedite the trial process, she has not only ensured that inmates are given the fair treatment they deserve but also reinforced the importance of diligent judicial practices. As part of the ongoing reform efforts, this exercise has the potential to make a lasting impact on the state’s correctional facilities and judicial system.
