Official Visit of the Honorable Chief Judge of Oyo State (Hon. I. S. YERIMA) to Agodi Custodial Centre On Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

In line with the tradition and authority vested on the office of the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, an annual visit to the Agodi Custodial Centre was conducted. This visit aligns with the Chief Judge’s power to grant release from custody as stipulated under Chapter 40, Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) 2016, Oyo State, Nigeria.

The purpose of this exercise is to decongest the already overstretched prison facilities while ensuring that justice is served fairly and promptly. The initiative seeks to prevent prolonged incarceration, especially in cases where the time spent in detention exceeds the statutory penalty for the offense. Additionally, the visit aims to safeguard the health and well-being of inmates by preventing outbreaks of contagious diseases due to congestion.

The Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, was unavoidably absent due to an official assignment. She was, however, ably represented by Hon. Justice A. L. Akintola, Hon. Justice M. I. Sule, and Hon. Justice O. A. Adetujoye. The event was chaired by Hon. Justice A. L. Akintola, who reiterated the importance of the visit and its objectives. He emphasized the need for continued collaboration between magistrates and relevant stakeholders in the judiciary to facilitate the smooth administration of justice.

During his address, Hon. Justice Akintola urges legal practitioners and concerned authorities to provide more comprehensive data and reports on inmates to ensure informed decision-making during such visits. He reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the law while balancing justice with fairness and mercy.

The Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) at Agodi Custodial Centre, Dr. A. O. Olayiwola, welcomed the visiting team and expresses appreciation for their presence. He highlights the alarming rate of overcrowding in the facility, noting that the custodial center has exceeded its intended capacity.

Dr. Olayiwola raises concerns over the merging of civil and criminal cases within the facility, emphasizing the need to address these cases separately. Additionally, he pointed out challenges related to compensation and restitution, where some inmates had completed their sentences but remained in custody due to their inability to fulfill restitution obligations.

The exercise initially identified 175 inmates for possible release; however, after thorough assessment and due legal considerations, a total of 32 inmates were granted freedom. This selection was based on criteria such as prolonged detention without trial, health conditions, and eligibility under statutory provisions.

At the conclusion of the release process, Hon. Justice A. L. Akintola addresses the newly freed individuals, urging them to make positive changes in their lives. He admonishes them to embrace a law-abiding lifestyle and avoid actions that could lead to re-incarceration. His closing remarks emphasized rehabilitation and reintegration into society as productive citizens.

The visit was both impactful and necessary in ensuring that justice prevails while addressing the critical issue of prison congestion in Oyo State. It also reinforced the judiciary’s commitment to upholding human rights and maintaining a fair legal system.

This exercise serves as a reminder of the judiciary’s role in balancing justice with fairness and mercy. Going forward, continued efforts will be made to refine the process, enhance inter-agency collaboration, and establish mechanisms to prevent undue incarceration.

Thank you.