The Delta State Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) has called for enhanced compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) of Delta State, as amended in 2022, while also seeking stronger collaboration with the police and other relevant stakeholders to improve justice delivery and protect the rights of defendants and victims.
This was disclosed during a courtesy visit by members of the committee, led by the Chairman, Hon. Justice Godwin Briki-Okolosi, to the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, in Asaba. The visit was aimed at officially welcoming the Commissioner to the state and seeking cooperation in implementing the ACJL.
Justice Briki-Okolosi stated that the police remain a critical stakeholder in the administration of criminal justice, noting that the Ministry of Justice cannot prosecute cases without police investigation. He explained that since the ACJL is relatively new, there is a need for continuous engagement with relevant stakeholders to ensure proper understanding of the law and effective collaboration in its implementation.
Speaking on investigation procedures and electronic recording of statements, he stressed that suspects should not make confessional statements without the presence of a Justice of the Peace (JP), traditional rulers, and other relevant stakeholders. He also advocated for the establishment of a Police Duty Solicitor Team (PDST) to ensure effective compliance with the law.
Justice Briki-Okolosi further explained that the committee was established to monitor compliance with and implementation of the provisions of the Delta State ACJL as amended in 2022.
According to him, the committee is responsible for monitoring and evaluation, ensuring effective application of the law by relevant agencies, and promoting efficient management of criminal justice institutions. He added that the committee’s key activities include reviewing court backlogs, inspecting police detention facilities, ensuring compliance with stipulated timelines, reducing overcrowding in detention centres, and promoting non-custodial measures.
Responding, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the committee for the visit and described it as a welcome development. He assured the committee that the Nigeria Police Force is ready to comply with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law.
The Commissioner stated that the police would ensure that anyone who commits an offence in Delta State faces the law, while innocent persons would be freed. He also noted that the police would examine some of the concerns raised by the committee, particularly regarding the recording of confessional statements in the presence of designated persons, while also being mindful of possible social media controversies.
On the Effurun incident, CP Oyeniyi disclosed that the Force Headquarters had taken over the matter, adding that the officer involved had been dismissed and their case files transmitted to the Attorney-General of the Federation for prosecution. He further assured residents of professionalism and good conduct on the part of the police.
The highlight of the visit was the presentation of the National Minimum Standards of the ACJL to the Delta State Commissioner of Police.