No fewer than 17 awaiting trial inmates at the Nigerian Correctional Centre, Ado Ekiti, have been granted pardon by the Ekiti State Acting Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Lekan Ogunmoye.
The Acting Chief Judge also granted bail to eight (8) other inmates of the facility as part of his constitutional duty to de-congest correctional facilities through such visits.
Comptroller of Corrections, Mr. Femi Olorunshagba, who conducted Justice Ogunmoye round the facility during the visit disclosed that nearly 500 cases of awaiting trial inmates, consisting both males and females, with offenses ranging from capital crimes to lesser offences were reviewed by the Acting Chief Judge.
The CJ carefully considered advice from the Director of Public prosecutions, Mr. Julius Ajibare over lack of evidence or detention time beyond constitutional stipulated term, among others, in granting the pardon and bail, while the bail conditions of 1 inmate was reviewed.
Justice Ogunmoye urged the pardoned inmates to exhibit good behavior, warning that those who engage in trouble-making would face the full weight of the law.
He also appreciated the efforts of the police, Attorney General, and Director of Public Prosecutions in decongesting the prison.
The Comptroller’s efforts was also appreciated for maintaining a clean and well-managed environment for the inmates.
For his part, Olorunshagba, expressed gratitude to the Acting Chief Judge and his entourage for their timely visit, which he said would positively impact the lives of the inmates.
He added that the act of mercy was expected to bring relief to the pardoned inmates and their families, allowing them to reunite and rebuild their lives.
The Acting CJ was accompanied by the Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata, SAN; Director, Ekiti State Public Complaint Commission, Mr. Isaac Anifowose and the state Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mr. Toma Matthew Enya.
Others are Ekiti State Director, Legal Aid Council, Mr. Adeyinka Opaleke; Director, Justice Development and Peace Initiatives, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Akingbade, lawyers, magistrates, police officers, and other dignitaries.
