Human rights lawyer and activist, Inibehe Effiong, yesterday regained freedom after spending exactly one month at the Uyo Correctional facility in Akwa Ibom State.
He was received by a mammoth crowd of friends, admirers and activists who had mobilised to give him a heroic welcome home.
Effiong was sentenced to one month in prison on July 27, 2022 by the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaette Obot, for contempt of court.
He is the lead counsel in the libel suit instituted by the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel and Senator Effiong Bob, against Mr Leo Ekpenyong, which was on its last day for prosecution.
Effiong is the defence counsel to Leo Ekpenyong in libel suits Nos HU/279/2019 and HU/273/2019 respectively.
Speaking while addressing the cheering crowd at Willington Bassey Way Uyo, Inihehe Effiong expressed appreciation to God for making the day possible, adding that history will always vindicate the just.
Reviewing the whole episode, he said deception and lies may tarry for a while but there are two judges that cannot be deceived: the judge of heaven and judge of conscience.
He appreciated his friends, family and colleagues including the media who stood by him during the period, adding that he considered it an honour to be incarcerated and that the one month period was an appointment with destiny.