Ogun Frees 287 Inmates To Decongest Prisons

About 287 inmates from the three Correctional facilities across the state were released on Monday by the Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon. Justice Modupe Dipeolu, as part of the strategy to decongest the centres.

The inmates, who regained their freedom from the twin Correctional Centres of Oba and Ibara in Abeokuta, as well as those of Ilaro and Ijebu Ode, consisted of those whose matters were categorised under prolonged pre-trial detention and delayed court proceedings.

Speaking on Monday at the Oba Correctional Centre and Ibara in Abeokuta during the Jail Delivery, Justice Dipeolu stated that the exercise was crucial in upholding justice, fairness, and the rule of law in the state.

The Ogun CJ also posited that the exercise plays a role in addressing prolonged pre-trial detention, overcrowded facilities, and delayed court proceedings.

“The essence of our judicial system is to uphold these values while ensuring every individual receives fair treatment under the law,” she stated.

The recent interventions include the release of 48 inmates in April 2024, 49 in November 2024, and 100 in May 2025. A notable intervention at Sagamu Correctional Centre, from November 24 to December 5, 2025, resulted in the release of 187 inmates.

“Another Special Intervention Week is underway in Ilaro from December 15-23, 2025, targeting 235 cases”, she disclosed.

Dipeolu called on the government to address systemic challenges, including the need for additional correctional facilities to alleviate congestion.

She explained, “Part of the duties of the Honourable Chief Judge is to conduct a jail delivery exercise at least once a quarter.

“A few months ago, I received an SOS message from the Controller of Correctional Centres in Ogun State, complaining of high congestion in all five centres.”

She added, “We had an intervention week in Sagamu where eight magistrates sat from 9 AM to 5 PM for a week, releasing 187 inmates.

“The intervention week in Ilaro started today and will last the week. We need government intervention to address prison congestion – the jail delivery exercise isn’t enough. We need more facilities, and that can only be done by the government.”

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, she urged released inmates to embrace discipline and responsibility: “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”