WARRI/Nigeria: Inmates Jeremiah Okotiebor, Odotimade Lylon, Umaru Abubakar, and Peter Okru were released during the 2024 second-quarter visit by the Delta State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Tessy Diai, to correctional centers across the state. Their release followed the advice of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), who determined they had no case to answer.
During the visit, Hon. Justice Diai reviewed a total of 360 warrants, noting that no inmates were granted bail. She emphasized the need for Court Registrars to adhere to the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, which mandates that case files for remanded suspects be sent to the Attorney-General’s office within three days.
Justice Diai commended the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Justice, Mr. Omamuzo Erebe Esq., the Director of Public Prosecutions, magistrates, correctional officers, and other stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the visit. However, she expressed concern over the failure of prison authorities to present inmates for trial in court. She noted that while some magistrates hold court sessions in prisons, this is not a universal practice, and it is imperative that authorities ensure inmates are brought to court on their scheduled dates.
Addressing the Chief Judge earlier, the Deputy Comptroller of the Warri Custodial Centre, Mr. Edo Lucky, highlighted the center’s efforts to provide educational opportunities for inmates, allowing them to acquire primary and secondary school certificates while serving their sentences.
Justice Diai’s visit underscores the ongoing challenges within the correctional system and the efforts being made to address them.
