By Solomon OKPO
A 29-year-old commercial tricycle operator, Ephraim Udo, has regained his freedom after spending four years in custody without trial, following the intervention of the Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge, Justice Ekaete Obot.
Udo, an indigeny of Ikono Local Government Area, was released during the Chief Judge’s routine jail delivery exercise and inspection of custodial centres in the state.
The young man was reportedly arrested and remanded in Uyo Correctional Centre on the alleged directive of a policewoman, said to be the mother of his fiancée, who opposed their relationship.
Narrating his ordeal before the Chief Judge, Udo disclosed that he shares two children with the woman’s daughter, adding that their relationship had endured for years despite stiff resistance from her family.
According to him, the policewoman had insisted that a tricycle operator was unfit to marry her daughter, a stance that ultimately led to his arrest and prolonged detention.
Moved by the circumstances surrounding the case, particularly the absence of any formal trial over the four-year period, Justice Obot ordered his immediate and unconditional release.
The Chief Judge emphasized the need to uphold the rights of citizens and decongest correctional facilities, reiterating that no individual should be held in custody indefinitely without due process.
An emotional Udo, while expressing gratitude, described Justice Obot as “a judge extraordinaire” for restoring his freedom and dignity.
The development has raised fresh concerns over the abuse of power and the prolonged detention of suspects without trial, a recurring issue within the nation’s justice system.
As of press time, it remains uncertain whether Udo will reunite with his fiancée and their two children after years of separation occasioned by his incarceration. (Source: Harrison Essien).
