Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong on Friday regained his freedom from Uyo prison 30 days after his controversial conviction for alleged contempt of court.
In a live session on social media, Effiong was seen walking with supporters chanting “Freedom cometh by struggle.”
Effiong said: “For me, as I’ve always said, history will vindicate the just. Well, I’ve just finished my one-month appointment with destiny.
“I came to the custodial centre to follow the path of my ancestors and those who sacrificed their comfort in order to defend their conviction.”
He also thanked the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for intervening in the matter.
“I consider it an honour to be incarcerated for standing by the truth. I thank the Olumide Akpata-led administration and other lawyers who fought to vindicate me,” said Effiong.
Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, said Effiong left the prison with 17 inmates.
“Inibehe Effiong has been released from unjust imprisonment in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The popular human rights attorney is as defiant as ever. He left prison with 17 inmates languishing in prison. He remains defiant as ever!” he said.
Akwa Ibom Chief Judge Ekaette Obot sentenced Effiong to 30-day imprisonment on July 27 for alleged contempt of court.
