House Urges Attorney General to Hasten Trials for Prolonged Pre-Trial Detainees

The House of Representatives has resolved to urge the Attorney General of Nigeria and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi,  to review cases where individuals have been held in pre-trial detention for an extended period and take necessary steps to expedite their trials.

The green chamber also urged the Judiciary to adopt innovative case management strategies ensuring timely hearings, with special consideration for individuals who have endured an undue amount of time in pre- trial detention.

This followed the adoption of a motion on “The Need to Expedite Trials of Persons in Prolonged Detention,” moved by

Mr. Ahmed Sani Muhammad.

He observed that a significant number of these individuals are detained for minor offences requiring minimal or no extensive investigation while expressing concern that the delay in adjudicating legal matters results in prison congestion, violates the rights of the accused, and erodes public confidence in the judicial system

“The House notes that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the International Human Rights Standards underscore the fundamental right to a fair and speedy trial;

” Observes that numerous individuals are languishing in prolonged pre-trial detention, often exceeding legal limits by years, thereby violating their rights, and contributing to prison overcrowding;

” Also observes that a significant number of these individuals are detained for minor offences requiring minimal or no extensive investigation;

” Concerned that the delay in adjudicating legal matters results in prison congestion, violates the rights of the accused, and erodes public confidence in the judicial system;

” Alarmed that trial delays dissuade witness appearances and compromise the integrity of the judicial process;

” Cognisant of the need to address this systemic injustice and uphold the fundamental right to a fair trial for all,” the motion read.

The House thereafter mandated the Committee on Judiciary to investigate the causes of pre-trial delays, propose necessary reform and report back within four (4) for further legislative action.

Lateefah Ibrahim