ABEOKUTA – The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu on Friday during jail delivery exercise, held at the Judiciary Complex, Kobape, Abeokuta set free 14 inmates as a way of tackling congestion in the correctional facilities across the state.
This is just as the Chief Judge equally refused to pardon an alleged 51-year-old rapist, Jimoh Muhammed said to have defiled a 14-year-old girl around 2018 while Suru Philip aged 40 who was allegedly involved in the kidnapping of the traditional ruler of Efire Town in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of the state in 2019 was equally not pardoned.
Justice Dipeolu described the exercise as a crucial mechanism to review cases, expedite justice, rehabilitate, and, most importantly, promote and reintegrate into society individuals who have faced a lengthy pre-trial detention.
She explained that the justice system has recently witnessed challenges including overcrowding in correctional facilities and delays in court proceedings caused by many factors.
Justice Dipeolu said that, “However, these numerous challenges within our justice system demand our urgent attention and innovative solutions, like the periodic jail delivery exercise, awarding of non-custodial sentences for minor offences, restitution, and compensation to victims of crimes, among others”.
She disclosed that during the last jail delivery exercise held between 29th and 30th April, 2024, 48 inmates from Ilaro, Oba and Ibara Correctional Centres were released after serious scrutiny.
Justice Dipeolu revealed that the periodic jail delivery was in compliance with the constitutional duty of the office of the Chief Judge of the State, which gives powers to review cases to identify those ready for release, particularly inmates with prolonged detention or serious health issues.
She said “The main essence of this program is to ensure that our system promotes reintegration rather than mere punishment for inmates with prolonged stay in custody without their case being determined within the time frame stipulated under the
law”.
The Chief Judge, however urged those that were released to turn a leaf and never go back to crime admonishing that they might not be fortunate to have a second chance.
She said “To the inmates that would be released today, I say this, Your journey does not end here. This exercise offers a chance for reflection, growth, and new beginnings.
“The time spent in confinement can, and should, inspire change and determination to re-enter society as positive contributors.
“Your future is still in your hands, and it is never too late to make amends and seek redemption. Use this second chance to rebuild your lives”.
The Comptroller of Correctional Centres, Ogun State Command, Ayodeji Adepoju while lauding the CJ for ensuring the unconditional release of the inmates has also begged the society to support the reintegration of these freed inmates back into the society.
Adepoju also urged the pardoned inmates to be more responsible citizens and shun crime while contributing to the development of the country.
Meanwhile, Justice Dipeolu while inaugurating the nine- member Local Government Election Petitions has urged them to remain impartial and ensure that the cause of justice is served.
The Chief Judge during the inauguration urged the tribunal members to uphold the rule of laws, demonstrate courage and be fair to all the parties.
Recalled that the state had its local government elections on November 16 which was won by the All Progressives Congress.
