- Journalists, AG unite for speedy criminal justice in Nasarawa
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Labaran Shuiabu Magaji, shed light on the factors contributing to the delayed dispensation of criminal justice in Nigeria during a meeting yesterday with the Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nasarawa State Chapter.
Barrister Magaji highlighted that the delays primarily stem from the side of defence lawyers. He explained that defence counsel often employs various tactics, such as frequent bail applications, attempts to have cases quashed, claims of judicial bias, and requests for judge disqualification, all of which can significantly prolong proceedings.
As an illustrative example, he mentioned a case involving Nnamdi Kanu where the defence lawyer sought his disqualification as a prosecutor based on his affiliation with the Department of State Security Service (DSS). This required adjournments and counter-affidavits, adding to the time spent on the case.
Another key issue identified by Barrister Magaji was the overcrowded court schedules. With judges handling an overwhelming number of cases on any given day, delays become inevitable. Cases may be adjourned for several months, and in some instances, they might not be heard for an entire year.
The Attorney General expressed his commitment to addressing these challenges by collaborating with all stakeholders in the criminal justice system. He emphasized the need to streamline proceedings, reduce frivolous applications, and ensure a more efficient legal process.
In response, Isaac Ukpoju, Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nasarawa State Chapter, assured the Commissioner of the media’s dedication to reporting on the ministry’s efforts to expedite criminal justice proceedings.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between journalists and the ministry to achieve the common goal of swift and fair justice in the state.