By Peter Omopo
In a bid to ease overcrowding in correctional facilities across Ogun State, the Chief Judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, on Thursday ordered the release of 67 inmates from three custodial centres.
The inmates were freed during a jail delivery exercise held at the Oba Custodial Centre. According to Justice Dipeolu, 35 inmates were released from Sagamu, 20 from Oba, and 12 from the Ibara facility in Abeokuta.
Addressing journalists, the Chief Judge explained that the periodic review and release of inmates is part of her constitutional responsibility to ensure the justice system does not unduly punish individuals awaiting trial for prolonged periods.
She noted that the release was based on compassionate and health grounds, with some of the inmates having spent extensive time in detention without meaningful progress in their prosecution.
Justice Dipeolu urged the beneficiaries to turn a new leaf and stay clear of activities that could lead to their return to prison, warning that future chances for leniency might not be guaranteed.
“This jail delivery exercise is part of our ongoing efforts to decongest custodial centres and uphold justice, especially for those who have suffered unnecessary delays in the system,” she said.
