Nigeria’s Chief Justice, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has urged the nation’s security forces to uphold human rights and guarantee complete adherence to court directives.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
The increasing trend of non-compliance by certain law enforcement organizations has alarmed her, as she pointed out that such actions erode public trust and compromise the integrity of the legal system.
Tobi Soniyi, her Senior Special Assistant on Media, said in a statement on Sunday that the CJN made the call during a courtesy visit to Abuja by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and his colleagues. The rule of law necessitates rigorous respect to court rulings, Justice Kekere-Ekun said, adding that disobedience to court orders damages public confidence in the courts and law enforcement.
In order to guarantee that court rulings and decrees are upheld and promptly carried out, she encouraged the IG to make explicit directives. Concerns over threats to litigants, judges, and court officials were also raised by the CJN, especially in cases that are politically sensitive or high-profile. In order to protect court officers and make sure they are shielded from harassment or intimidation, she asked the IGP for assistance.
She promoted “more police presence at court premises, particularly in violent or unrest-prone areas.”rigorous adherence to constitutional protections, such as the rights to counsel, notification of accusations, and quick court appearances.safeguarding vulnerable populations, such as women, children, and people with impairments.
The significance of adhering to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, namely its prohibitions on arrest in lieu, harsh treatment of suspects, and the requirement that confessional statements be electronically recorded, was further emphasized by Justice Kekere-Ekun. It is unlawful to arrest family members or associates in lieu of a suspect, she informed the police, in accordance with Section 7 of the ACJA.
She demanded that the Nigeria Police Force implement internal disciplinary actions to make sure that officers don’t commit crimes. She also urged the IGP to put in place systems to keep an eye on and stop police brutality so that lawbreakers are held responsible. The CJN emphasized the necessity to adhere to Section 8(1) of the ACJA, which forbids torture and inhumane or degrading treatment, and restated the constitutional duty to treat suspects with respect.
Justice Kekere-Ekun further noted that the nation’s lengthy trials and prison overcrowding are largely caused by inadequate investigative procedures, a lack of careful case preparation, and prosecution delays.
In order to save cases from being dismissed for lack of evidence, she counseled the police and associated agencies to finish investigations before making charges. In order to guarantee smooth case prosecution and, eventually, strengthen the legal system, the CJN promoted better cooperation between the police, the Ministry of Justice, and the judiciary.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
