Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki says the state government has allocated 100 hectares of land in Orhionmwon Local Government Area for the development of a state-run correctional facility.
Governor Obaseki disclosed this during the swearing-in of Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, as the Chief Judge of Edo State, at the weekend.
The Governor urged Justice Okungbowa to fast-track the setting up of mobile courts, embark on visits to correctional centers and expedite trials, among other steps to decongest the correctional facilities and provide justice for those awaiting trial for years.
He said: “The Constitutional amendment has paved the way to end the menace of congested correctional facilities and endless wait for trials.
“I urge the new Chief Judge to take advantage of the development and provide leadership in resolving this challenge of prison congestion which has become a national embarrassment and crisis. We would like you to provide direction for us in the development of correctional facilities in Edo State.
“I have allocated 100 hectares of land in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of the State for a new State Correctional facility as the design is ready but we can’t proceed to award the contract to build without seeking clarification, assistance and support from you.
“We believe that the correctional facility will set the template and example of what state correctional facilities should look like when it is completed under your tenure. I urge you to fast track the setting up of mobile courts to visit correctional centers and conduct institute trials to decongest the correctional facilities and provide justice for those awaiting trial for years.”
He added, “The Judicial system in Edo State has benefited from years of serious, spirited and sincere efforts to improve the processes of justice administration, ensuring the prerequisite infrastructure and manpower are available to facilitate timely delivery of Justice to all.”
