An awaiting trial inmate, Saliu Akande, who was charged with rape, has been released by the Chief Judge (CJ) of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa. Akande had spent four years at the Auchi Medium Security Correctional Centre without a case file.
Justice Okungbowa visited the prison to alleviate congestion and expedite the trial process for inmates. He pointed out that Section 470 (2) of the Edo State Administration of Law 2018 mandated the court to ensure swift resolution of criminal matters and reduce the backlog of cases.
He stated, “Since assuming office, I have worked diligently with members of the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee to fulfill our mandate. My commitment is unwavering: no one should be detained longer than necessary, except as stipulated by law.”