Nasarawa State has implemented a new policy that shortens the period required for providing legal advice on significant cases. Previously taking more than 40 days, this process will now be completed within seven days, a move intended to speed up the administration of justice and reduce the population in correctional centres.
Isaac Danladi, the state's Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, announced this development during a press briefing in Lafia. He highlighted that protracted legal procedures have been a contributing factor to the extended detention of inmates awaiting trial.
Danladi elaborated that the reform streamlines the procedure by assigning responsibility to the Director of Public Prosecution. This change removes the need for multiple review stages, which had previously caused delays in case processing.
"We recognised that delays in adjudication erode confidence in the rule of law, discourage investment, and leave victims and defendants in prolonged uncertainty," Danladi stated.
He further revealed that the Ministry of Justice has enhanced the capabilities of over 70 state counsels to handle prosecutions in various courts. Additionally, improvements to their remuneration are being made to foster greater efficiency and motivation.
The state is also actively engaging with the judiciary, police force, correctional services, and the Nigerian Bar Association to identify and resolve hindrances within both criminal and civil justice systems.
Danladi affirmed that Governor Abdullahi Sule's administration remains dedicated to reforming the justice sector. This commitment includes carrying out regular pardons to help manage congestion in the nation's correctional facilities.
Speaking on the development, the Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Tanko, mentioned that the government plans to continue public awareness campaigns. These efforts are designed to build confidence in the legal system and discourage individuals from resorting to extralegal means.
He encouraged citizens to pursue resolutions through the courts and available alternative dispute resolution channels. Tanko assured that these reforms would strengthen the rule of law and enhance governance within the state.
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