By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Ebonyi State Security Council on Wednesday expressed dismay over the congestion of Correctional Service Centres across the state.

It therefore, directed the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief Cletus Ofoke to liaise with the state Comptroller of Correction Centres in state to get the full lists of inmates awaiting trial with a view to decongesting them.

Ofoke stated this while briefing journalists after the state Security Council meeting presided by Governor David Umahi at new Government House, Centenary City, Abakaliki.

He said: “The security council has noted with dismay the congestion nature of the Correctional facilities in Ebonyi.

“Council directed that the Attorney General and CP should liaise with the Comptroller of corrections to get the full lists of inmates awaiting trials.

“This is with a view to decongesting the centres in the state by way of either releasing them based on opinions from the Ministry of Justice or by granting of bail by the court.”

On the hostilities that erupted in Akaeze community in Ivo local government area which led to deaths and destruction of property, council directed Mr Aliyu Garba and Ofoke to ensure that those arrested were made to face the law.

It was that violence erupted in Akaeze following the alleged torture and death of a crime suspect, Nnaogo Anyim which led to burning of property worth millions of naira including that of Council chairman.

“Council received briefing on the carnage in Akaeze, Ivo LGA just two days ago.

“Council has condemned the carnage and has directed that the state Commissioner of Police and my humble self, the Attorney General to ensure that those arrested face the law.

“Council directed that there should be regular briefing on the outcome of the prosecution of the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

“Council however commended Ebubeagu Security Outfit for what they are doing in the state in securing the environment, protecting lives and property of citizens.

“Council however warned that the personnel should always do their job in line with the rules of engagement.

“Council further directed that the CP and other security agencies should be on the watch for Ebubeagu personnel who may want to go contrary to rules of engagement,” he added.