The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has raised concerns about the overcrowded and deteriorating state of correctional facilities in the state, emphasizing the urgent need for decongestion to prevent further decline and health hazards.
This issue was brought to the floor during Thursday’s plenary session by Hon. Sampson Idiong, representing Oruk Anam State Constituency.
Idiong attributed the overcrowding of correctional facilities to delays in the judicial process, particularly for inmates awaiting trial. He noted that maintaining overcrowded facilities is more capital-intensive, underscoring the need for immediate government intervention.
“Aware that the Nigerian criminal justice system is plagued by flaws, with cases often lingering without resolution for years, thereby overcrowding the correctional centers,” Idiong stated.
He also pointed out that the overcrowding not only leads to significant revenue drains on government resources but also accelerates the deterioration of the facilities.
Hon. Idiong highlighted that Uyo Prison, originally designed to accommodate 600 inmates, now houses over 1,500 inmates. Similarly, the Ikot Ekpene center, designed for 800 inmates, is currently accommodating twice its capacity, which has devastating effects on the infrastructure.
In his motion, Idiong urged the House to take necessary action through the House Committee on Security to conduct a facility tour of the four correctional centers in Akwa Ibom State to prevent potential prison breakouts.
In his ruling, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, directed the House Committees on Public Utilities and Judiciary, Justice, Human Rights, and Public Petitions to interface with the Judiciary Service Commission and report back within two weeks.