By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Freedom for Anambra man after 7 years without trial
Uche Nnoli, a 40-year-old man from Nteje in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, regained his freedom on Thursday after spending seven years in detention without trial at the Onitsha Correctional Centre. Initially detained over a community crisis, Nnoli was moved between correctional facilities in Delta State and Anambra State before his release was secured by the Human Rights Protection Service (HRPS), a group based in Naples, USA.
Prince Chinedu Ekwunife, the Chairman of the Anambra State chapter of HRPS, explained that Nnoli’s prolonged detention came to their attention through his distressed family. The group’s legal team intervened, facilitating Nnoli’s return to the Onitsha Correctional Centre and ultimately getting his case struck out by Justice Okey Onunkwu of Otuocha High Court 2.
Ekwunife praised the judiciary for its role in upholding justice but highlighted the dire conditions of correctional facilities in Anambra State. He pointed out the urgent need for improvements in infrastructure and medical services. HRPS has plans to establish skills acquisition centers in these facilities to provide inmates with vocational training and reduce recidivism.
Correctional centre officials declined to comment on the matter, citing lack of authorization.
Freedom for Anambra Man After 7 Years Without Trial