Man Regains Freedom After Eight Years of Pre-Trial Detention in Port Harcourt
In a poignant reminder of systemic failings in Nigeria’s criminal justice system, a man detained for over eight years without trial has finally regained his freedom.
Mr. John Gift Tobia was arrested and remanded on 6th March 2017, while his case remained perpetually “awaiting trial.” During this time, no formal hearing was held. He remained incarcerated for eight years, four months, and ten days—without ever being afforded his day in court.
Justice, however, finally prevailed when a High Court in Rivers State unconditionally ordered his release in June 2025. Upon his discharge, Mr. Tobia was seen expressing deep gratitude to Barrister Hope Azeru-Oziri, whose legal intervention ultimately secured his freedom. Mr. Tobia also shared hopeful remarks about rebuilding his life after years of unjust incarceration.
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