The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has taken steps to ease the burden of overcrowding in correctional facilities by granting pardon to 49 inmates.
This initiative was part of a jail delivery exercise conducted at Oba, Ibara, and Ilaro Correctional Centres in Ogun State.
Of the total, 31 inmates from Oba Correctional Centre, 15 from Ibara, and three from Ilaro prison were released.
Justice Dipeolu emphasized that the exercise aimed to alleviate congestion in the facilities. She explained that the cases of inmates were thoroughly reviewed, and those deemed deserving were granted freedom.
During her visit to the correctional facilities, she expressed concern over the poor conditions and overcrowding, particularly for those awaiting trial.
The Chief Judge underscored the urgency of addressing overcrowding to prevent unnecessary deaths and ensure humane conditions for inmates.
While acknowledging efforts made by the managers of the correctional centers, she urged them to intensify measures to improve conditions further.
Furthermore, Justice Dipeolu stressed the importance of expediting justice and providing rehabilitation opportunities to tackle the underlying causes of congestion.
In response, Saliu Adepoju, Controller of the Correctional Centre, commended the Chief Judge for her commitment to justice and upholding judicial standards.
The Chief Judge was accompanied by a team of Judges from the State High Court and the Director of Public Prosecution Management during the exercise.