The Chief Judge of Kwara State, Justice Abiodun Adebara, has freed 16 inmates during a visit to the old Ilorin custodial centre in Okekura and the new Ilorin custodial centre in Mandala.

In a statement on Tuesday, the spokesperson for the Nigerian correctional service in the state, Adegbulugbe Philip, said the inmates were released to decongest correctional facilities and uphold the principles of justice.

“The release, which took place on Monday, 1st and Tuesday, 2nd December, 2025, saw eight inmates granted conditional freedom, four were fully discharged from the old Ilorin Custodial Centre, while four were discharged from the New Ilorin Custodial Centre, ” the statement stated.

Mr Adebara further explained that those released included inmates who had been held for long without trial, those with health challenges, and those without credible charges against them, adding that “the exercise was part of the judiciary’s statutory duty to decongest correctional facilities and ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done”.

The chief judge urged key stakeholders in the justice system to collaborate closely and handle criminal cases with greater diligence to prevent unnecessary delays and prolonged detentions for those awaiting trial.

Mr Adebara also commended the officers and personnel of the Nigerian correctional service for their cooperation and commitment, reaffirming the state judiciary’s dedication to protecting human rights and advancing the rule of law.