CJ Challenges AGF, NBA, Others on Effective Implementation of Criminal Justice Laws

Alex Enumah in Abuja 

The Chief Judge (CJ) of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has called on the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), law enforcement agencies and other critical stakeholders in the justice sector, to work towards the effective implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015, as well as the various states’ Administration of Criminal Justice Laws (ACJL).

Justice Tsoho made the call on Tuesday at the opening of a two-day training for ACJA/ACJL Rangers and project launch of the National Minimum Standards for Implementation of ACJA/ACJL.

The CJ, who was represented by the Director, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Mrs Zainab Biu, described the ACJA/ACJL as a comprehensive response to the challenges that have long plagued the country’s criminal justice system; such as delays, human rights abuses, and lack of transparency.

“Let us all pledge our support to the ACJA Rangers and the National Minimum Standards. Together, we can build a criminal justice system that truly serves the interests of justice and upholds the rights of all Nigerians,” the CJ said.

He stated that the launch of the programme is a crucial step towards realizing the full potential of the ACJA/ACJL, adding that the training of dedicated individuals as ACJA Rangers would empower them to monitor and ensure compliance with the provisions of the Act. 

“These Rangers will serve as the eyes and ears of the justice system, identifying and addressing gaps in implementation and promoting a culture of accountability.

“The National Minimum Standards, also being launched today, will further strengthen the implementation of the ACJA, by providing clear benchmarks for all stakeholders. These standards will serve as a guide for judges, prosecutors, defence attorneys, law enforcement officers, and other justice sector actors, ensuring consistency and uniformity in the application of the law,” he said.

The CJ commended the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS) for its tireless efforts in organizing the event and unwavering commitment to promoting the rule of law in Nigeria.

In a goodwill, the Director, Administration of Criminal Justice and Reforms, Mrs Leticia Ayoola-Daniels, stated that the event underscores shared commitment to creating a more efficient, fair and standardized justice system. 

“NMS is a groundbreaking tool aimed at harmonizing the implementation of the ACJA and ACJLs across the federation. By establishing consistent guidelines, we aim to enhance the efficiency, transparency and effectiveness of criminal justice processes nationwide. This alignment will be invaluable for addressing disparities, reducing delays, and ensuring that justice is accessible and equitable for all Nigerians,” she said. 

In a keynote, CSLS President, Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN), pointed out that having achieved 100 per cent passage of the ACJL, attention must now shift to creating awareness, as well as understanding of the law and promoting effective implementation.

The law Professor stated that the objectives of the NMS, amongst others, is to deepen the implementation of the ACJA 2015 and the ACJLs of states; provide a common basis for evaluating criminal justice institutions nationwide; foster greater collaboration between the federal and state governments in addressing the challenges of criminal justice; promote healthy competition amongst the states; and provide a basis for attracting more resources to the criminal justice sector.

He therefore urged ACJA/ACJL stakeholders to “familiarize themselves with the National Minimum Standards and use them to advocate for the implementation of the administration of criminal justice reforms”.