By Vivian Okejeme Abuja
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, yesterday reiterated 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 ensures that arrested persons are treated with dignity.
He also revealed that records has 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 lies basically in the absence of 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.
