Rivers CJ Frees 14 Prisoners

Rivers State Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Chibuzor-Amadi, has ordered the release of 14 inmates from the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre.

This is part of activities marking the 2026/2027 Legal Year Opening and the 2026 Gaol Delivery Exercise.

Justice Chibuzor-Amadi, who released the inmates during the visit to the correctional centre, on Tuesday, said the exercise was conducted pursuant to the Criminal Justice “Release from Custody Special Provisions Act” and it’s aimed at decongesting the custodial facility.

He explained that those released included inmates 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.

He urged officials of the correctional facility to protect confidential information, particularly details of inmates scheduled for release, to avoid unnecessary tension.

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Addressing the released inmates, the Chief Judge urged them to return to society as ambassadors of peace and good conduct, warning that those who re-offend may not receive a similar opportunity.

Justice Chibuzor-Amadi 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.

He 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.