The chief judge of Kogi, Josiah Majebi, on Thursday freed two awaiting-trial inmates, Hassan Alfa and Umar Abubakar, at the Kabba Medium Security Custodial Centre after reviewing the cases of 22 inmates.

The two inmates were released from custody during the jail delivery exercise after their cases were reviewed and determined.

The development is part of efforts to decongest custodial facilities and ensure speedy dispensation of justice.

Mr Alfa had been standing trial for alleged criminal conspiracy and theft, while Mr Abubakar was facing charges of criminal conspiracy and assault.

The inmates regained their freedom after Magistrate Susan Adaji delivered judgement on their cases with the consent of the chief judge.

Mr Majebi expressed concern over what he described as indolence and lack of commitment by some prosecutors, noting that such attitudes often resulted in unnecessary delays in the administration of justice.

He warned that undue delay in the prosecution of cases would no longer be tolerated, stressing the need for diligence and professionalism among justice sector stakeholders.

The chief judge also frowned at the practice of some courts receiving cash payments instead of bank deposits as part of bail conditions.

He described the development as unacceptable and urged judicial officers to adhere strictly to established procedures.

Mr Majebi further cautioned against the criminalisation of civil matters, saying that disputes purely of a civil nature should not be treated as criminal offences. He also expressed concern over the heavy workload on some judges, noting that the situation could hinder the speedy determination of cases.

According to him, measures have been put in place to transfer some cases to other courts to reduce the burden and improve efficiency in the justice system.

The chief judge charged magistrates to adequately prepare for future decongestion exercises by ensuring that all relevant records and information relating to pending cases were readily available.

He restated the need for judicial officers to sign court records and ensure that adjournment dates were set and properly documented at the end of every proceeding.

Mr Majebi said the exercise formed part of the judiciary’s efforts to promote access to justice, reduce congestion in custodial centres, and safeguard the rights of awaiting-trial inmates.

(NAN)