Akwa-Ibom State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ekaette Fabian Obot, has pardoned a total of 57 awaiting trial inmates from the four Custodial Centres in the state.

The pardon was granted on compassionate grounds in the spirit of the Yuletide season according to a press release which also stated that the Chief Judge reviewed all the awaiting trial cases in the Custodial Centres in the state, and released 57 inmates. While four inmates were released from Ikot Abasi, six were let loose in Eket; 14 from Ikot Ekpene and 33 from Uyo 33.

This was after the Chief Judge had concluded a tour of the custodial centers in the state.

The Chief Judge further appreciated the Nigerian Correctional Service for doing a good job of securing the teeming inmate in a safe and humane custody. She also commended the healthy physical appearance of the inmates.

In his response, the Controller of Corrections, Akwa-Ibom State Command, Julius Ezugwu, on behalf of the Controller-General of Corrections, Haliru Nababa, appreciated His Lordship and the judiciary in the state for the robust synergy with the Command and for coming to the aid of the inmates, stressing that the judiciary is the last hope of the common man.

He however advised the lucky inmates to turn a new leave and desist from crimes. He further urged them to make good use of the skills they learnt in the facilities.