In a significant move to address overcrowding in custodial facilities, the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Chibuzor-Amadi, has released fourteen inmates from the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Custodial Centre. This release coincided with the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year of the Rivers State Judiciary.

The released inmates included individuals who had been in custody longer than the potential sentences for their alleged offenses, as well as those whose trials were delayed due to administrative issues. Justice Chibuzor-Amadi emphasized that the release was in accordance with the provisions of the law aimed at alleviating congestion in correctional facilities.

During the ceremony, Justice Chibuzor-Amadi stated, "I’m here to perform a statutory function pursuant to Section 1 of the Criminal Justice Release from Custody Special Provision and Laws of Federation of Nigeria 2004 and Section 341 of Rivers State Administration of Criminal Justice Law Number 7 of 2015." He elaborated on the criteria for release, noting that many of the inmates had been held for years without trial, not due to their own actions but because of failures in the legal process, such as the police's inability to submit case files to the Ministry of Justice.

The Chief Judge called on the released individuals to reintegrate into their communities and to serve as role models for responsible living. He warned them that any return to criminal activity could jeopardize their chances for future leniency. Additionally, he cautioned against becoming involved in political violence, particularly as the country approaches an election period, highlighting the vulnerability of young people in such situations.

Justice Chibuzor-Amadi also advised correctional facility officials to maintain confidentiality regarding inmate releases to prevent unnecessary unrest.

The Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service in Rivers State, Richard Moses-Williams, praised the initiative, stating that it would significantly help in reducing the number of inmates at the facility. He commended the Chief Judge for his commitment to addressing the challenges within the correctional system and for his visit to the custodial centre, which underscores the judiciary's role in promoting justice and rehabilitation.

This release marks a proactive step by the Rivers State Judiciary as it seeks to balance the scales of justice while ensuring the humane treatment of individuals awaiting trial.