Federal Ministry of Justice Collaborates Imo State Justice ministry Holds Workshops & Partnership on the Issues of Criminal justice Delivery.
Anselem Gozie Anokwute
The Federal Ministry of Justice and Imo State Ministry of Justice are taking significant steps to curb unlawful detention in Imo State, thanks to a bill sponsored by former lawmaker, Hon. Barr. Frank Ugboma. As the Minority Leader of the Imo State 9th Assembly, Ugboma fearlessly championed the passage of the Imo State Administration of Criminal Justice Law 2020, which ensures speedy access to justice for Imolites ¹.
A recent workshop, held on October 9-10, 2024, brought together legal practitioners and the Nigeria Police Force to discuss the implementation of key sections of the law.
Imo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. COC Akaolisa, expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort, emphasizing that no Imolite will be unlawfully detained, and suspects cannot be held for more than 48 hours
The Provisions of the Law include
Speedy Access to Justice_: Ensures Imolites receive prompt justice.
– _Detention Limitations_: Suspects cannot be detained for more than 48 hours.
– _Judicial Oversight_: Magistrates and judges will regularly visit detention facilities to identify unlawful detentions.
– _Right to Court_: Suspects detained beyond 48 hours have the right to seek court intervention.
Hon. Ugboma, in an interview, highlighted his role in introducing the bill and its successful passage into law. He encouraged colleagues, judiciary, and law enforcement agencies to uphold the law’s provisions ¹.
Currently on sabbatical overseas, Ugboma plans to announce his next political move at the appropriate time. His legacy, however, continues to shape Imo State’s justice system, ensuring that the phrase “good name is better than gold” rings true for the people of Imo.
