The Head of the Department of Training and Development at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, Abuja, AIG Mohammed Gumel, has called for the effective implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) in Kano State.
Gumel made this appeal in a keynote address at the Inter-Agency Accountability Forum on ACJL Compliance held on Tuesday.
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In his address, Gumel highlighted the importance of a well-functioning criminal justice system, stating, “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.”
He stressed the need for continuous improvement, transparency, accountability, and human rights within the system. “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 added.
Gumel outlined the key institutions involved in criminal justice administration in the state, including 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. He noted the crucial role of the police in this system, as they are often the first point of contact and have significant discretion in conducting arrests, searches, seizures, and investigations.
“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,” Gumel said. He also emphasized that the police provide the entry point into the criminal justice system either through complaints or crime reports from the public or their investigations.
Gumel further explained that the functions and duties of Nigerian police personnel are regulated by the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Law and the Nigeria Police Act. He acknowledged the ongoing journey towards full compliance with the ACJL, expressing confidence that with determination and cooperation, significant progress can be made.
“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,” he stated.
Gumel concluded by reaffirming the importance of partnership and adherence to these principles to build a model criminal justice system. “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.
