Ogun: 356 inmates freed in jail delivery exercise – Chief Judge

From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta

No fewer than 356 inmates have regained freedom from correctional facilities across Ogun State in two years, the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has revealed.

The Chief Judge said the release of the inmates was facilitated through the Jail Delivery Exercise and Intervention Week sittings conducted by magistrates.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony of the Jail Delivery Exercise held at the Ceremonial Court, Judiciary Complex, Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, Justice Dipeolu said that the exercise, which is continuous, has helped in the decongestion of correctional centres in Sagamu, Ijebu Ode, Ilaro, Oba and Ibara in Abeokuta.

The Chief Judge noted that the exercise represents one of the most critical judicial mechanisms for safeguarding the rule of law, protecting fundamental rights, and ensuring that justice is not undermined by delay, neglect, or procedural inertia.

She, however, observed that the number of inmates freed so far through the efforts of the Ogun State Judiciary is actually more than twice the capacity of Sagamu Correctional Centre, which stands at 150.

She further pointed out that the administration of justice must never be perceived solely as an instrument of punishment; rather, it must embody fairness, equity, rehabilitation, and respect for human dignity.

Quoting one of the most influential jurists in common law, William Blackstone, Justice Dipeolu said, “It is better that ten guilty persons escape than that one innocent suffer”, hence the principle remains a guiding moral compass of criminal justice administration.

She emphasised that the Jail Delivery Exercise is neither an act of benevolence nor an indulgence of discretion, but a constitutionally anchored judicial responsibility designed to review cases, eliminate unjustified detention, and reaffirm public trust in the justice system.

While saying that the exercise has served as a corrective mechanism through which the judiciary ensures that correctional facilities do not become warehouses for forgotten citizens, the Chief Judge added that the figure of inmates freed so far represented more than mere statistics as it signified restored liberty, reunited families, and the reaffirmation of constitutional values.

“To those inmates who will regain their freedom today, this moment marks a turning point. Your future must therefore be guided by respect for the law and a firm commitment to lawful and responsible living.

“I extend my deep appreciation to the Sub-Committee on Decongestion of Correctional Centres in Ogun State, comprising members of the Judiciary, the Ministry of Justice, the Nigerian Correctional Service, the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, civil society organisations, and other relevant stakeholders, whose dedication and hard work continue to strengthen the administration of justice in the State. As we move forward, we must remain resolute in our commitment to a justice system that is efficient, humane, and responsive”, Justice Dipeolu submitted.