Uzodinma grants pardon to 36 prisoners in Imo

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, Friday approved the release of 36 prisoners as part of efforts to decongest correctional centres in the country.

He also directed the Acting Chief Judge of the State, Mrs. Ijeoma Aguguo, to immediately commence accelerated trial and release of inmates who were awaiting trial for minor charges or allegations.

A statement issued on Friday by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Declan Emelumba, said the governor also directed that the prison trials must observe all COVID- 19 safety measures, including wearing of face masks and social distancing.

He directed the prisoners granted pardon are those serving three years with less than six months to go.

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Others are convicts who have spent up to 25 percent of their prison terms and minor offenders with three to six months imprisonment.

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