New year: Otu frees 45 prisoners in Cross River

By Ehigimetor Igbaugba

No fewer than 45 prisoners have regained their freedom through Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River’s exercise of his prerogative of mercy.

The inmates who regained their freedom were convicted of various offences and have spent a considerable period in correctional centres in the state.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nsa Gill, the governor’s action was in the spirit of the new year and the People First mantra of his administration.

He noted that the directive was contained in the approval given to the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ededem Ani.

According to the statement, the exercise was in accordance with section 212 (1) (a) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (Amended).

Gill listed the freed prisoners’ offences to include felony, stealing, breaking, assault, threats to life, cultism and armed robbery.

Others are illegal entry, logging and unlawful possession of firearms conspiracy, assault and threatening violence, and malicious damage.

“It’s important to give a second chance to those pardoned and considered reformed, as well as the need to decongest the prison,” he stated.