RismadarVoice Reporters
September 22, 2026
Fourteen inmates have regained their freedom in Rivers State following a release exercise conducted by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Simeon Chibuzor-Amadi, at the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre.
The exercise formed part of activities marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year and was aimed at addressing prolonged detention and helping to decongest custodial facilities in the state.
Among those released were inmates who had spent longer periods in custody than legally prescribed for the offences for which they were accused. Others had remained in detention due to delays in the determination of their cases arising from processes involving government agencies and the judiciary.
Justice Chibuzor-Amadi said the exercise was carried out in accordance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law and formed part of efforts to reduce congestion within custodial facilities across Rivers State.
The Chief Judge also cautioned officials of the correctional service against disclosing confidential information, particularly the identities of inmates scheduled for release, noting that such disclosures could create unnecessary tension within the facility.
Addressing the freed inmates, Justice Chibuzor-Amadi urged them to make responsible use of their freedom and return to their communities as ambassadors of peace and law-abiding citizens.
He warned that beneficiaries who returned to custody after committing fresh offences might not receive another opportunity for similar consideration.
The Chief Judge further advised the beneficiaries not to allow themselves to be recruited for political violence, warning that young people had lost their lives after becoming involved in violent political activities.
He urged them to reject actions capable of endangering their lives or threatening peace and security within their communities.
The Rivers State Controller of Corrections, Richard Moses-Williams, commended the state judiciary for the exercise, describing it as an important intervention in addressing overcrowding within the custodial system.
Moses-Williams said the release would contribute to reducing congestion at the facility while supporting improved welfare and more effective management of inmates.
