The Head, Department of Training and Development, Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, Abuja, AIG Mohammed Gumel, on Tuesday called for the effective implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law in Kano State.
Making the call in a keynote address at an Inter-Agency Accountability Forum on the Administration of Criminal Justice Law Compliance, Gumel said, “The effective implementation of the ACJL in Kano State is a moral and legal imperative that necessitates a collective effort from all stakeholders.
“We must recognise that a fair, efficient, and respected criminal justice system is a cornerstone of justice, and considering its significance, it cannot be overstated.
“Therefore, we must be committed to continuous improvement and learning, embrace transparency, accountability, and human rights, and foster collaboration and coordination, among law enforcement, judiciary, correctional services, and the public.
“We must also ensure access to justice for all, particularly vulnerable populations, and promote community engagement and participation in the criminal justice process.”
He listed the key institutions in Criminal Justice Administration recognised in the state as all law enforcement agencies (especially the Police), the prosecution (Office of the Attorney General and the police), the courts, the defence counsel (private legal practitioners and legal aid), custodial institutions (prisons) and the justice sector reform team.
According to him, the police in particular, being the first component of the criminal justice system, decide the inputs into the process and exercise the widest discretion when carrying out arrests, searches, and seizures, as well as conducting criminal investigations.
Also, Gumel said the police provide the entry point into the criminal justice system either through complaints or crime reports from the public or their investigations.
Furthermore, Gumel noted that the functions and duties of the Nigerian police personnel are regulated by the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Law and the Nigeria Police Act.
“The journey towards full compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law is ongoing, but with unwavering determination, cooperation, and a collective vision, we can create a more just, equitable, and prosperous society for all.
“Let us continue to engage in productive discussions outlined in this stakeholders discussion programme, take advantage to share best practices, and use the outcome to keep supporting one another in our efforts towards making positive progress in enhancing the administration of criminal justice in Kano State and Nigeria by extension.
“By partnering and upholding these principles, we can build a criminal justice system that serves as a model for others to emulate. Let us reaffirm our dedication to this noble pursuit and continue to strive for excellence in the administration of criminal justice in Kano State and Nigeria at large,” he emphasised.
