The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, yesterday stressed the need to effect compliance of sections 29, 33 and 34 of Administration of Criminal Justice Act(ACJA), 2015.
The Minister informed that the Police Duty Solicitors are presently stationed in over 15 Police Divisions in the FCT to monitor compliance with the provisions of ACJA and ensure that arrested persons are treated with dignity.
He also revealed that records have shown that the PDSS has ensured access to justice, right to counsel, legal services, and right to fair trial to over 28,000 detainees since inception in February 2022.
He continued that the scheme has in collaboration with the Police Divisions in the FCT, taken the extra efforts to ensure a healthy condition of the cells, like wise the Court Duty Solicitors has continued to offer free preliminary legal services and representation in the courts.
The AGF was speaking through Mrs. Leticia Ayoola-Daniel, Director, Administration of Criminal Justice and Reforms (ACJ&R) Federal Ministry of Justice at the 2-day Criminal Justice Stakeholders Workshop On Effective Implementation of Section 29, 33, and 34 of ACJA.
” We welcome you all, to this significant gathering of stakeholders in the administration of criminal justice focused on the coordination for the effective implementation of arrests, prompt delivery of statutory reports on arrests and the crucial monthly visits by magistrates to detention facilities.
“It is without doubt that in the landscape of our criminal justice system, we face challenges in the enforcement of some sections of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015 especially sections 29, 33 and 34. These prevailing challenges lie basically in the absence of a coordinated approach and the making of the requisite sacrifices involved as the need arises to enforce the existing laws and policies.
“The purpose of this Workshop is to bring about that missing link within our collective aspirations to build a society where justice prevails, regardless of the circumstances.
“Our roles as Law judicial officers, prosecutors, enforcement agencies, civil society organizations and indeed citizens are pivotal in reshaping the weak points of the criminal justice system.
“Apparently, none of us is immune to or insulated from the challenges of our present system, and it is essential to recognize that the transformation of Criminal Justice System is embedded in our collective efforts.
“To build a resilient and efficient model, we must learn from the mistakes of others and work together to create a system we can trust, rely on, and be proud of. It is high time we face the challenges head-on and optimize the system for the benefit of all.
“Section 29 of ACJA, 2015 emphasizes the establishment of a database for records of those arrested. In this digital age, data is not just information. It is life, and when properly utilized, it becomes a powerful tool in shaping government policies and recognition of patterns.
“Data sharing is crucial, and the lack thereof contributes to the loss of lives every day. Some crimes are preventable when data is properly harnessed or shared.
“The implementation of this section in line with the specific details outlined in section 15 of ACJA, 2015, will require the collaboration of DPOs towards the creation of a robust database for informed decision-making process.
“While it is important to recognize all divisions that has been consistent, till date there are some police stations that do not comply with the provision of sections 29 and 33 of ACJA with regards to the rendering of monthly reports of suspects arrested without warrants.
“We have also noticed a reduction in the monthly visits by the judicial officers to detention facilities.
“I must commend the Administration of Criminal Justice Committee (ACJMC) and our donor partners on the Police Duty Solicitor Scheme (PDSS) and the Court Duty Solicitor Scheme (CDSS).
“My vision is to see a justice system that works for all, irrespective of status. To this end, I urge you all to unite in creating a criminal justice system that fears or respects no one except the rule of law. We must uphold the minimum standards that accords respect to suspects throughout the administration of criminal justice.
“As critical stakeholders, I will like us to have extensive discussions and deliberations on issues hampering us from attaining the kind of criminal justice system that we truly desire. As we embark on this workshop, I am confident that the knowledge shared will enrich each one of us to the extent that there will be a clear shift from negative narratives.
” Let us leverage on this opportunity to grow and learn together. Working collaboratively, we can create an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and respected. It is on this note that I declare this workshop opened.”
