The House of Representatives on Thursday called on the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, to review cases involving individuals who have been in prolonged pre-trial detention and take swift action to expedite their trials.
Additionally, the House urged the judiciary to implement innovative case management techniques to ensure quicker hearings, especially for those who have spent excessive time awaiting trial.
This appeal followed a motion raised by Rep Ahmed Sani Muhammad during a plenary session in Abuja.
In his motion, Muhammad highlighted that both the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and International Human Rights Standards guarantee the right to a fair and speedy trial.
He expressed concern that many individuals are enduring extended pre-trial detention, often for years, far exceeding legal limits. This not only violates their rights but also exacerbates prison overcrowding.
Muhammad noted that many of those held are accused of minor offences that require minimal investigation, raising concerns about the efficiency of the justice system.
He warned that delayed trials undermine the rights of the accused, contribute to prison congestion, and erode public trust in the judiciary.
“Alarmed that trial delays dissuade witness appearances and compromise the integrity of the judicial process. Cognizant of the need to address this systemic injustice and uphold the fundamental right to a fair trial for all,” Muhammad added.
He stressed the need for reforms to address these systemic issues and protect the right to a fair trial.
The House resolved that the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Correctional Services should investigate the root causes of pre-trial delays, propose necessary reforms, and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
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