In a move to decongest the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Rivers State Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Chibuzor-Amadi, has ordered the release of 14 inmates. This was part of activities marking the 2026/2027 Legal Year Opening and the 2026 Gaol Delivery Exercise. The release was conducted pursuant to the Criminal Justice “Release from Custody Special Provisions Act”.
According to Justice Chibuzor-Amadi, the released inmates included those who had spent periods exceeding the maximum sentence prescribed for their alleged offences, as well as others whose cases had been delayed through no fault of their own. The Chief Judge emphasized the importance of protecting confidential information, particularly details of inmates scheduled for release, to avoid unnecessary tension.
Addressing the released inmates, Justice Chibuzor-Amadi urged them to return to society as ambassadors of peace and good conduct. He warned that those who re-offend may not receive a similar opportunity. The Chief Judge also cautioned the youths in the state against being used by politicians to cause violence during the political season, noting that young people are often victims of political violence.
Justice Chibuzor-Amadi encouraged those who maintained their innocence to use the opportunity to engage in lawful and meaningful activities, acquire productive skills, improve their livelihoods, and make positive contributions to their families and communities. He added that the exercise reinforces the commitment of the Rivers State Judiciary and Ministry of Justice to decongest correctional facilities, uphold the fundamental right to fair hearing, and ensure that justice is administered fairly, promptly and in accordance with the law.
The Rivers State Controller of Corrections, Richard Moses-Williams, commended the judiciary for the exercise, describing gaol delivery as an important measure in addressing congestion in custodial facilities. The release of the inmates is a significant step towards achieving this goal and ensuring that the rights of inmates are protected.
The gaol delivery exercise is a critical component of the criminal justice system, aimed at reducing the number of inmates in custodial facilities. By releasing inmates who have been held for extended periods, the judiciary is not only decongesting the facilities but also upholding the principles of justice and fairness.
The release of the 14 inmates is a welcome development for the Rivers State Judiciary and Ministry of Justice, as it demonstrates their commitment to upholding the rights of inmates and ensuring that justice is served. The exercise also highlights the importance of collaboration between the judiciary, correctional facilities, and other stakeholders in the administration of justice.
Key points
- The Rivers State Chief Judge ordered the release of 14 inmates from the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre as part of the 2026 Gaol Delivery Exercise.
- The released inmates included those who had spent periods exceeding the maximum sentence prescribed for their alleged offences, as well as others whose cases had been delayed through no fault of their own.
- The exercise aims to decongest correctional facilities, uphold the fundamental right to fair hearing, and ensure that justice is administered fairly, promptly and in accordance with the law.
