15 Inmates Regain Freedom Through Ekpenyong’s Prison Outreach in Cross River

Fifteen inmates at the Afokang Correctional Centre in Cross River State have regained their freedom following an intervention by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong during a recent prison outreach visit.

The inmates, most of whom were held for minor offences, had remained in custody largely because they were unable to pay court-imposed fines. The senator facilitated the settlement of these fines, clearing the way for their release.

Senator Ekpenyong was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Nela Ekpenyong, alongside members of the Cross River State Law Students Association, University of Calabar chapter. Together with legal practitioners and correctional officials, they ensured that all required legal and administrative procedures were properly concluded.

Speaking during the visit, the senator noted that the outreach was aimed at addressing situations where individuals remain incarcerated not because of serious crimes, but due to financial hardship. He stressed the need for a correctional system that prioritizes rehabilitation and fair access to justice.

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to reduce congestion in correctional facilities while giving affected individuals the opportunity to return to society and rebuild their lives.