The Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Tessy Diai, embarked on a significant first-quarter mission to enhance the efficiency and fairness of the state’s justice system. Her visits to custodial centers across Delta State aimed to review cases of awaiting-trial inmates and ensure that justice was served swiftly and impartially. This comprehensive undertaking involved a meticulous review of 1,228 warrants, ultimately leading to the release of seven individuals who were found to have no case to answer. This action marked a pivotal step towards decongesting correctional facilities and upholding the fundamental right to a fair and expeditious trial.
The journey began at the Warri Correctional Centre on March 10, 2025, where Justice Diai, accompanied by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Mr. Anthony Orhorhorho, reviewed 350 warrants. This thorough examination resulted in the release of one inmate. The subsequent visit to Sapele saw the review of 138 warrants at the main custodial center and an additional 10 warrants at the Sapele Remand Home, though no releases were granted at either location. The review process continued in Kwale, where, after scrutinizing 181 warrants, one individual was released. This individual had endured a prolonged period of incarceration on charges of arson and kidnapping. The Agbor custodial center was the next stop, where 135 warrants were reviewed without any releases.
The culmination of this extensive review process occurred at the Ogwashi Uku Custodial Centre. Here, Justice Diai and the DPP meticulously examined 428 warrants, the largest number reviewed at any single location during the exercise. This comprehensive review resulted in the release of five inmates, bringing the total number of released individuals across the state to seven. The Ogwashi Uku releases marked a significant milestone in the Chief Judge’s mission, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring that no individual was unjustly held in custody.
The release of these seven individuals represented a victory for justice and a testament to the dedication of Justice Diai and the DPP. Each release was based on the legal advice of Mr. Orhorhorho, who confirmed that the individuals had no case to answer. This meticulous approach ensured that releases were based on sound legal grounds, upholding the principles of fairness and due process. The collaborative effort between the Chief Judge and the DPP highlighted the importance of a strong and efficient working relationship between the judiciary and the prosecution in ensuring a just and equitable legal system.
The Chief Judge’s efforts were met with profound gratitude from those who benefited from her intervention. Among the released inmates at Ogwashi Uku was Mr. Chukwuemeka Ugwu, who had been accused of robbery and kidnapping. Maintaining his innocence throughout his detention, Mr. Ugwu expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Justice Diai for her role in securing his release. His case underscored the critical importance of the Chief Judge’s visits, as they provided a vital opportunity to review cases of individuals who might otherwise languish in custody without a fair hearing. Mr. Ugwu’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the potential for individuals to be wrongly accused and the crucial role of the justice system in protecting the innocent.
Justice Diai’s first-quarter visits to custodial centers represent a significant step towards a more just and efficient criminal justice system in Delta State. Her meticulous review of warrants, coupled with the DPP’s legal counsel, ensured that individuals were not held in custody without just cause. The releases brought relief to those unjustly detained and sent a clear message about the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rights of all citizens. This initiative not only addressed the immediate issue of overcrowded custodial centers but also reinforced public trust in the legal system. The Chief Judge’s dedication to ensuring fair and timely justice sets a positive precedent for future efforts to improve the administration of justice in Delta State and beyond.
