In a groundbreaking initiative, the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Josiah Majebi, has facilitated the release of 27 inmates across six correctional centres in the state. This humanitarian gesture was made possible through the Victory Idewele Foundation, a non-governmental organization that paid fines and compensations amounting to ₦10 million.
The releases occurred during Justice Majebi’s inspection tour of correctional centres in Kogi State from Monday to Wednesday. The Chief Judge emphasized that the visits aimed to ensure no inmate is unjustly detained while promoting the decongestion of correctional facilities.
At the Koton-Karfe Maximum Security Correctional Centre, two inmates benefited from the initiative. Mustapha Idris, fined ₦50,000, was released, while Kehinde Amaka, sentenced to one year in prison with a ₦300,000 fine, was also assisted by the foundation. However, Amaka will remain in custody until January 15, 2025, to complete his sentence.
In Kabba’s Medium Security Custodial Centre, 20 inmates were released, while five inmates were freed from the Ankpa correctional centre.
The Chief Judge lauded the Victory Idewele Foundation for its unprecedented support, describing the intervention as historic.
“This visit is special and unique because, in the history of the state, this type of additional event during correctional centre visits has never happened before,” Justice Majebi remarked.
The initiative stemmed from a collaboration with Hon. Halidu Adejo, Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary, who introduced the foundation’s founder, Mr. Innocent Idewele, to the Chief Judge.
The foundation not only covered the financial obligations of the inmates but also provided transport fares for the freed individuals. It further promised to enroll them in a skill acquisition program in Abuja, offering accommodation, feeding, and starter packs to help them reintegrate into society.
Justice Majebi urged other local government chairmen to emulate the chairman of Idah Local Government, who demonstrated significant concern for the custodial centre in his jurisdiction.
The Chief Judge expressed dissatisfaction with unnecessary delays in cases by some prosecutors, which often prolong the detention of awaiting-trial inmates. He also cautioned magistrates against being used as instruments of oppression.
Mr. Innocent Idewele, the foundation’s founder, highlighted the NGO’s commitment to improving the lives of the less privileged. “Every need of the citizens should not be left for the government to tackle,” Idewele stated, underscoring the importance of private sector and individual contributions to societal development.
This initiative has set a new standard in humanitarian efforts within the justice system, offering hope and a fresh start to those who have been unable to pay for their freedom.
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