The Chief Judge of Kwara State, Justice Abiodun Adebara, has ordered the release of 16 inmates during a two-day visit to the old Ilorin custodial centre in Okekura and the new Ilorin custodial centre in Mandala.

In a statement on Tuesday, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Service in the state, Adegbulugbe Philip, confirmed the release took place on Monday, December 1st, and Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025, to decongest correctional facilities and uphold the principles of justice.

Justice Adebara explained that those released included inmates who had been held for long without trial, those with health challenges, and those without credible charges against them.

He added that: "The exercise was part of the judiciary's statutory duty to decongest correctional facilities and ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done."

The Chief Judge urged key stakeholders in the justice system to collaborate closely and handle criminal cases with greater diligence to prevent unnecessary delays and prolonged detentions for those awaiting trial.

He reaffirmed the state judiciary's dedication to protecting human rights and advancing the rule of law.