In a renewed effort to uphold the rights of detainees and promote justice within Nigeria’s criminal justice system, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has facilitated the release of five individuals from police custody during a routine detention audit in Ugep, Cross River State.
The intervention was led by the State Coordinator of the Commission, Mr. Remi O. Ajuga, during a monitoring visit to the Yakurr Divisional Police Headquarters as part of NHRC’s ongoing mandate on detention facility oversight and rights protection.
The NHRC team profiled a total of nine male detainees during the visit, reviewing both their legal statuses and the conditions under which they were held. It was discovered that five of the detainees qualified for administrative bail, in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) and other relevant laws.
Following the Commission’s recommendation, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) granted bail to the eligible detainees without delay.
Speaking during the engagement, the DPO emphasized the Division’s commitment to upholding the “Bail is Free” policy. He noted that strict adherence to the policy had improved public trust and significantly reduced gang-related attacks on the facility — incidents previously attributed to allegations of extortion during bail processes.
During the inspection, the NHRC team also raised concerns about the poor hygiene conditions within the detention cells and the lack of adequate water supply. The Commission advised the police authorities to implement urgent remedial measures to prevent potential health risks.
Meanwhile, the Commission received complaints regarding the irregular presence of magistrates at the Chief Magistrate Court (CMC) in Ugep, allegedly causing delays in suspect arraignment. In response, the NHRC visited the court to verify the claim.
The registrar of the CMC denied the allegation, explained that although one magistrate is currently ill, court sittings have continued as scheduled, with another magistrate presiding. She clarified that any delays in arraignment were internal administrative issues to be addressed by the police.
The National Human Rights Commission reiterated its resolve to sustain routine monitoring of detention centres and court processes, to ensure that the rights of suspects are respected and that due process is consistently upheld.
