RSG Begins Implementation Of Amended Criminal Justice Law

Towards ensuring the promotion of restorative justice system in the state, the Rivers State Judiciary, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and the MacArthur Foundation have begun the process of implementation of the newly signed State Administration of Criminal Justice Law for the benefit of all in the state through the inauguration of a 10-man monitoring council.
Speaking at the inauguration of the State Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Council at the auditorium of the state Judiciary Complex in Port Harcourt , yesterday, the state Chief Judge, Justice Adanma Iyayi-Lamikanra, tasked members of the committee to synergize and implement the new law for the benefit of all.
Iyayi-Lamikanra opined that as stakeholders in the administration of criminal justice, they were aware of challenges already bedevilling the system, and urged them to work together to find solution to the challenges.
According to her, the Administration of Criminal Justice (ACJ), among other things, tends to promote speedy trials in criminal justice, protect the rights and interests of all parties and the society at large.
She said, “The constitution of the council members cut across all the stakeholders such as the security agencies, correctional service and the Judiciary.
“We know these challenges from arrest, to arraignment and remand, so, I enjoin all of you to be committed to this responsibility and attend meetings regularly so as to meet the desired need of the law”, she stated.
The state chief judge, however, congratulated all the council members on their appointment, and expressed optimism that they will deliver on their assignment considering their pedigrees in their profession.
Earlier in his remark, the Commissioner for Justice and the Attorney General of the state represented by the state Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Ministry of Justice, Mrs Ibiene Mbano, had said the ministry has constituted a plea bargain committee that would aid in the speedy trial of criminal cases and decongest the prisons, adding that in doing so, the interest of the state and the law was put under consideration.