A statement issued by the Kano State High Court of Justice and signed by its Public Relations Officer, Malam Baba Jibi, said that the acting Chief Judge of the state, Justice Nuradeen Umar, released the inmates. It said that Umar visited the prison on Thursday to listen to the complaints of men and women in detention. The statement said the purpose of the visit was to administer justice and to decongest the prison in the state. The inmates released comprised detainees who had overstayed in the prison as well as the aged. The statement said the action was in pursuant to the power conferred upon the judge by CAP. C40 Criminal Justice (Release from Custody) (Special Provisions) Act. The acting chief judge also assured the speedy trial of cases in the magistrates, Sharia and high courts in the state. He enjoined the prison authorities to also participate and cooperate with the judiciary in the exercise.]]>