Lack of vehicles keeps 46 inmates from court in Akwa Ibom
A vehicle shortage at the Medium Security Correctional Centre in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, has left 46 awaiting-trial inmates unable to attend court hearings. Samuel Bassey, the Officer-in-Charge, revealed that some inmates have never appeared in court due to this issue. He described the situation as “very worrisome” and appealed for urgent intervention. The centre is also facing infrastructure challenges, with deteriorating roofs and poor staff accommodation.
What happened
- Samuel Bassey said some inmates from Nsit Ubium Local Government Area have been at the facility since 2023 without appearing in court due to lack of vehicles.
- Correctional authorities have resorted to hiring commercial mini buses to transport inmates, which poses security risks.
- The last vehicle donation was during the administration of former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio.
- Heavy rains have damaged several roofs at the facility, exposing inmates to harsh weather.
- The Eket Federal Constituency Media Professionals Forum visited the centre and called for better support and working conditions for staff.
