The Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola, on Thursday granted pardon to 31 inmates awaiting trial across various correctional centres in the state as part of efforts to decongest overcrowded prisons.
Justice Odusola, who was conducted around the facilities by the State Comptroller of Corrections, Jude Agboje, undertook a two-day tour of the Olokuta Medium Correctional Centre in Akure, the Segede Custodial Centre, and the Female Custodial Centre in Ondo town.
Among those released were suspects facing charges such as rape, armed robbery, and sexual exploitation, as well as inmates battling chronic health conditions like tuberculosis and HIV.
Seventeen inmates were freed from Olokuta, twelve from Ondo, while two others were granted bail and released to their mothers.
The Chief Judge explained that the exercise was part of routine judicial oversight aimed at promoting human rights and improving access to justice.
He lamented the high number of inmates languishing in custody without trial due to delays by prosecutors and lack of legal representation.
He noted that the pardons were granted on compassionate and medical grounds, and in cases where the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP) had failed to diligently prosecute.
“Many of these inmates have been unlawfully held for prolonged periods without trial. This visit is to ensure that no one is forgotten behind bars due to systemic lapses,” Odusola said.
Remarking, Agboje, commended the Chief Judge for his commitment to justice reform and his compassion for inmates stuck in the justice system without trial.
“Justice Odusola has shown rare humility and dedication to upholding the rule of law,” he said.
He, however, appealed to the state government for more support towards improving facilities and prosecutorial efficiency.
