By Sunday Apah
Delta State has once again secured the top position in the implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) among Nigeria’s 36 states.
This achievement underscores the state government’s commitment to judicial reform and efficient legal processes.
During a press briefing in Asaba following the official presentation of the award, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, credited the accolade to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the dedicated staff within the ministry.
Their continuous efforts have been pivotal in maintaining Delta’s leading status in criminal justice implementation.
Ohwovoriole highlighted that the ministry’s initiatives align with the M.O.R.E. Agenda of Governor Oborevwori’s administration.
He attributed the state’s recognition as the best in Nigeria to significant reforms, particularly in the area of providing timely legal advice on criminal matters.
“In Delta State, we average no more than six days to offer comprehensive legal counsel on criminal issues,” he stated.
“Our goal is to ensure that those who commit crimes face justice, while also protecting the rights of the innocent to avoid unnecessary trials.”
The Attorney-General noted that the office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) has undergone digital reforms to maintain accurate records of all criminal cases and convictions.
“The implementation of biometric record-keeping for criminal trials will help deter both first-time and repeat offenders,” he said.
Also, the state is pioneering virtual hearings within Correctional Centres to minimize the costs and risks associated with transporting suspects to court.
“By establishing courtrooms inside the Correctional Centres and allowing judges to conduct sessions from our headquarters in Asaba, we can expedite cases and reduce expenses.
“We’re preparing to implement this at Ogwashi-Uku and Okere Correctional Centres very soon,” he added.
Mr. Patrick Osisioma, Executive Secretary of the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) in Delta State, explained that the state was recognized as the best during the National Technical Review and Evaluation Conference (NTREC) 2.0, which assessed the ACJA’s implementation nationwide.
He shared that Delta State received a certificate of excellence, along with a plaque, laptop, and work station, congratulating the state on its impressive score of 90.9%.
This accomplishment follows Delta’s previous win in 2021, where it again outperformed other states, including Rivers, Nasarawa, Abia, Ekiti, and Bayelsa.
