174 INMATES FREED IN OYO STATE AS CHIEF JUDGE LEADS TWO-DAY PRISON DECONGESTION EXERCISE BY THE CHIEF JUDGE OF OYO STATE, TUESDAY, JUNE 24 AND WEDNESDAY JUNE 25, 2025.

In a decisive effort to decongest correctional facilities and promote justice reform, the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice I.S. Yerima, facilitated the release of a total of 174 inmates during a two-day judicial visitation exercise to custodial centres across the state.

The initiative began on Tuesday, June 24, at the Abolongo Medium Custodial Centre, where 77 inmates were granted freedom. It concluded on Wednesday, June 25, with the release of 97 inmates from the Agodi Maximum Custodial Centre. Both visits were led on behalf of the Chief Judge by Hon. Justice A.L. Akintola, who addressed the freed inmates with words of encouragement and caution.

“This is an uncommon favour,” Justice Akintola told the inmates at both facilities. “Today, God has shown you mercy. Many are still in custody, yet grace found you. Reflect on this opportunity and do not take it for granted.”

The releases followed a comprehensive review of over 200 individual cases, with considerations based on poor health conditions, excessive pre-trial detention, and capital offences. Justice Akintola used the platform to remind the former inmates of the importance of personal reform and reintegration, urging them to pursue legal and productive livelihoods.

The Oyo State Comptroller of Corrections, Mr. Ayoola Dare Opadeji, expressed appreciation to the judiciary, describing the visits as a reflection of a justice system that is increasingly responsive and humane. He confirmed that the Agodi facility is designed to hold 350 inmates, is currently housing over 1,400, underscoring the urgency of such initiatives.

“This is a welcome gesture we’ve come to expect from the judiciary,” Mr. Opadeji noted. “We hope visits like this can become more frequent, even monthly if possible, to help manage the chronic issue of prison congestion.”

Beyond the legal relief, the exercise also carried a deeper message: a call to transformation. Justice Akintola emphasized that the gesture was not merely an act of mercy, but also a challenge for the inmates to reclaim their lives and contribute positively to society.

As the judicial decongestion drive wraps up for now, hope has been rekindled, not just for those released, but also for others still awaiting justice across the state. The message is clear: change is possible, and the second half of the year is a chance to reclaim the moment.

Thank you.