A Federal High Court sitting in Jalingo has ordered the release of 13 inmates who had been detained at the Taraba State Correctional Centre for periods ranging from one to six years without trial.
The ruling followed a suit filed by human rights lawyer Barrister John Nkemnagum Okezie, who represented the inmates pro bono.
Okezie had sued the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) for violating the fundamental rights of the detainees.
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Delivering judgement, Justice Maskur Salisu described the prolonged detention of the inmates without trial as a “gross violation of their constitutional rights” and “an affront to human dignity.”
Court Awards 48 Million Naira Compensation To Victims
The judge ordered their immediate release and awarded a total of ₦48 million in damages to the 13 inmates.
The court officially enforced the judgement on November 3, 2025.
Justice Salisu cautioned law enforcement agencies to act strictly within the provisions of the law and respect citizens’ fundamental rights as guaranteed by the Constitution.
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Speaking to journalists after the verdict, Barrister Okezie said his action was driven by a commitment to help decongest Nigeria’s correctional centres and to secure justice for indigent citizens.
“This was a pro bono effort to ensure justice is not reserved only for those who can afford it,” he said.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
