Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos, has signed an amendment bill into law prohibiting police officers from presenting criminal suspects to the media.
Many critics have chastised the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in the past for holding public trials of suspects who had not been officially charged in court, but officials have continued to do so as is customary.
Following the signing of the Administration of Criminal Justice (Amendment) Law (ACJL) by Lagos State on September 30, 2021, the practice is now outlawed.
Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN), the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Court, said in a statement on Tuesday, October 5 that the law ensures that everyone who comes into contact with the justice system has their fundamental rights upheld.
The law also includes provisions for conducting criminal proceedings via an audio and video conferencing platform, the Chief Magistrate’s power to visit police stations, compensation for victims of crimes, and victim and witness protection.
It also includes the creation of a Crime Data Register and the creation of a Criminal Justice Sector Reform Committee to oversee the law’s implementation.
Onigbanjo said the law will further strengthen the justice system, and address delay in the administration of justice.
“The Ministry of Justice through collaborative effort with Stakeholders in the Administration of Criminal Justice will ensure the provisions of this law are enforced,” he said.
