Kogi CJ frees 5 inmates, warns judges not to adjourn criminal cases beyond 2 weeks

Those freed include a female inmate. Two others were granted bail after critical review of their case files . Justice Ajanah gave the order while reviewing 60 case files of the inmates during prison decongestion visits to Ankpa and Dekina Federal Prisons. The Chief Judge also warned judicial officers to always ensure that elements of the offences allegedly committed by the suspects are contained in the First Information Report. He explained that such mistakes will continue to impact negatively on awaiting-trial inmates as their cases may not see the light of the day. The freed female inmate, Ameh Happy, who was standing trial for criminal conspiracy and armed robbery got reprieve when advise from the Director of Public Prosecution DPP absolved her of any complicity in the alleged offence. Ajanah stated that the continued incarceration of the accused person is unconstitutional, more so that DPP had advised that she has no link with the alleged case. Others were Mikailu Alidu, Arome Abah, Aminu Danjuma and Ogbodada Wada. Justice Ajanah also warned Judges, Magistrates and Area Courts Judges that no criminal cases should be adjourned beyond two weeks. He noted if prosecution is not forthcoming after two weeks, the judges have the power to deliver ruling immediately. At Ankpa Federal Prison, a total of 35 case files of awaiting trial inmates were reviewed. Three inmates gained freedom, while two others were granted bail with the sum of N60,000. While in Dekina Medium Prison, a total of 25 case files of the awaiting trials were reviewed by the Chief Justice. Two inmates regained freedom.]]>