Taraba CJ conducts jail delivery exercise at Jalingo custodial centre
By Martins Abochol
Justice Joel Agya, the Chief Judge of Taraba State on Monday in Jalingo, conducted jail delivery at the Medium Security Custodial Centre Jalingo.
Justice Joel Agya
Speaking during the exercise, Justice Agya said the exercise was a practical demonstration of the
Judiciary’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the protection of
fundamental human rights.
He emphasised that the exercise is a reflection of the resolve by the Taraba State Judiciary to ensure that no
person was detained beyond what the law permitted.
He added that the jail delivery exercise was to ensure that justice is
not delayed by avoidable procedural bottlenecks.
“Jail delivery is not merely a ceremonial visit; it is a constitutional and moral duty.
“It provides an opportunity for the
courts to directly examine the conditions of custody, review cases of inmates who may have been unduly held, and offer relief in deserving circumstances.
“In doing so, we reaffirm the timeless
principle that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.
“Today’s exercise underscores the importance of inter-agency
collaboration. I commend the leadership and personnel of the Nigerian Correctional Service for their cooperation and professionalism.
“I also appreciate the dedication of our Judges, Magistrates, State Counsel, Legal Aid providers, the Police, and all stakeholders whose collective efforts make this exercise meaningful.
“The wheels of justice turn best when all institutions work in harmony. While we celebrate the release or review of deserving cases today, we must confront the deeper issues that lead to congestion
in our custodial centres”.
The Chief Judge noted that delays in investigation and prosecution,
prolonged remand of defendants, lack of legal representation for
indigent persons, and administrative inefficiencies were major factors causing congestion of custodial centres.
He said that the challenges demanded continuous reform, innovation, and a renewed commitment to speedy justice.
Justice Agya gave assurance that the Judiciary of the State remained committed to strengthening case management system.
He added that the Judiciary would continue to encourage the use of non-
custodial measures where appropriate, and ensuring that magistrates’ courts and area courts diligently review remand cases in line with the law.
“We will continue to support initiatives
that promote alternative dispute resolution, plea bargaining where
legally permissible, and the humane treatment of persons in
custody.
“To those inmates who may regain their freedom today, I urge you to see this moment as a second chance. Use this opportunity to rebuild your lives, respect the law, and contribute positively to
society, he added.
The Chief Judge commended Gov. Agbu Kefas of Taraba State and the
Government of the State, as well as all partners who continued to support judicial reforms and access to justice in the State.
Earlier, Mr Francis John, Controller of Corrections, Taraba Command commended the Judiciary for the jail delivery exercise.
“This visit is a clear demonstration of your steadfast commitment to justice.
fairness, and the protection of fundamental human rights.
“We are particularly grateful that this exercise is coming on the heels of our recent engagements and advocacies aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Bench and the Nigerian Correctional Service.
” This is aimed towards addressing the challenge of congestion in our custodial facilities across Taraba State.
” The presence of the Honourable Chief Judge within these walls sends a strong message of hope to inmates awaiting trial and reassurance to the entire
justice system.
“Jail delivery exercises such as this are not only symbolic; they are practical and
impactful mechanisms for correcting delays, reviewing prolonged detentions, and ensuring that no individual is kept in custody longer than the law permits.
” We are confident that today’s exercise will significantly contribute to the decongestion of our custodial centres in the state, he said.
18 cases were reviewed during the exercise.
While other awaiting trial inmates were granted bail, some cases were assigned to new courts.
The Chief Judge expressed his determination to continue the exercise until all encumbrance surrounding over stay in detention and delayed justice delivery are addressed.
