CLEEN Foundation’s findings shed light on critical areas for reform within Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
By Archibong Jeremiah
A new study by the CLEEN Foundation has brought to light significant challenges in the implementation of Nigeria’s Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Law (ACJA/L), highlighting inconsistent compliance, outdated investigative practices, and systemic bottlenecks that hinder the justice process across eight states.
The study, conducted in Edo, Delta, Bauchi, Sokoto, Katsina, Jigawa, Kwara, and Cross River, examined the level of compliance among criminal justice actors, including the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), judiciary, and correctional services. Findings indicate that while there are areas of progress, significant gaps remain in law enforcement practices, evidence gathering, and judicial efficiency.
The study findings were released in Calabar, the Cross River State capital during a workshop in Hogis Luxury Suites by Mrs Chigozirim Okoro, Programmes Manager of CLEEN Foundation.
Mixed Compliance In Law Enforcement
The report notes that 54.5% of respondents believe law enforcement agencies are compliant with ACJA/L guidelines on arrests. However, 18.9% observed non-compliance, and 26.7% reported indifference to these procedures. The treatment of detainees also revealed inconsistency, with only 50.2% of respondents describing police as respectful of detainee rights, while 40.1% noted varying levels of disrespect.
CLEEN Foundation’s findings raise questions about the training and accountability measures in place for law enforcement agencies, who are tasked with upholding the rights of individuals under the ACJA/L.
Outdated Investigative Techniques And Corruption
The study shows that 67% of stakeholders, including judges, correctional officers, and EFCC personnel, identified a lack of modern investigative methods as a key issue. Law enforcement agencies reportedly rely on outdated tools, undermining their ability to gather and preserve evidence effectively. Additionally, 56% of respondents reported corruption as a problem, particularly within investigative and prosecutorial ranks.
“Outdated techniques and systemic corruption compromise the integrity of the justice process,” the report states, calling for urgent investment in digital evidence-gathering tools and improved transparency in police operations.
Judicial Delays And Concerns Over Independence
Delays in court proceedings emerged as a major bottleneck, with 64% of lawyers and 65% of police officers pointing to case backlogs as a critical issue. Respondents indicated that slow case transfers between the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) contributed to these delays, leading to prolonged detention times and stalled justice for many defendants.
Moreover, the study revealed concerns over prosecutorial independence, with 82% of judges and 78% of ICPC staff pointing to external pressures on the DPP’s office. These findings raise questions about impartiality in prosecutorial decisions.
Lack Of Witness Protection
The absence of support for witnesses emerged as a troubling trend, with 68% of police officers and 66% of court officials citing a lack of witness protection infrastructure. This gap discourages witness participation and weakens the state’s ability to pursue justice effectively, especially in cases involving violent crimes or politically exposed persons.
Recommendations
The report offers several recommendations to address these issues, including increased funding, modernization of investigative methods, and stronger inter-agency collaboration.
CLEEN Foundation suggests establishing communication protocols and regular meetings between agencies to streamline processes.
Additionally, the report highlights the need for public education campaigns to foster a better understanding of the ACJA/L among law enforcement officers and citizens alike.
CLEEN Foundation’s findings shed light on critical areas for reform within Nigeria’s criminal justice system. With targeted investment and systemic changes, the report suggests that Nigeria can strengthen its justice framework and deliver more reliable, transparent outcomes for its citizens.
“The Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Law has the potential to revolutionize justice delivery in Nigeria, but only if agencies have the resources, independence, and coordination required for full compliance,” the report concludes.
Read the full report below: