The Federal Ministry of Justice (FMOJ) has announced that it is developing a record of arrest database which is expected to be completed by December 2024.
The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, who was represented by his Special Assistant, Mr Ahmed Wada, announced this during the validation of the National Minimum Standards (NMS) document on the implementation of the administration of criminal Justice Act/Laws, ACJA/ACJLs in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
He noted that after the validation session, the approved NMS document will be signed by the Attorney General of the Federation, printed in various languages, and distributed nationwide, and sensitisation programs will be carried out across the geo-political zones in the country
The AGF said that some of the notable provisions of the NMS Document to be produced include: Innovative standards solving the problems of payment of compensation by convicts, one of which is the establishment of a Victim compensation fund, deployment of a case tracking software to monitor the progress of cases, which will help to improve monitoring and evaluation, among others.
“Incorporation of electronic arraignment, a necessary step towards technological innovations in our criminal justice system, establishment of a Witness Support Unit to resolve the issue of payment of witness expenses, establishment of a Bail Information Management System and other data collation provisions to capture information of suspects and sureties for all bails processed through the courts; and Provisions on the strengthening of the ACJMC’s structure, monitoring powers and logistics, amongst other innovative provisions,” he added.
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The Director of the administration of Criminal Justice and Reform Department of FMOJ, Mrs Latisha Ayiola Daniels, said that the NMS document is designed to bridge the gaps and challenges that have previously hindered the full realisation of the ACJA/ACJLs, ensuring a more streamlined and effective criminal justice process.
“The ACJA 2015 has already laid a solid foundation, and this NMS document builds upon that foundation to ensure that we establish a more effective, accountable, and responsive criminal justice system,” she said
Prof. Yemi Akinseye from the Center for Social Legal Studies emphasised the urgent need for the digitisation of courts to enhance efficiency and accessibility.
He highlighted that integrating technology in the judicial system could streamline case management, reduce delays, and improve transparency. Additionally, digitisation would facilitate remote access to court documents and hearings, making the legal process more inclusive.
Prof. Akinseye stressed that investing in digital infrastructure is crucial for a responsive and effective judicial system.
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