The House of Representatives has urged the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to review cases of individuals who have been held in pre-trial detention for an extended period and take necessary steps to expedite their trials.
The advice was given following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Ahmed Muhammad during Thursday’s plenary.
In adopting the motion, the House also urged the Judiciary to adopt innovative case management strategies ensuring timely hearings, with special consideration for individuals who have endured an undue amount of time in pretrial detention.
It also mandated the Committee on Judiciary to investigate the causes of pre-trial delays, propose necessary reform and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
Presenting the motion, Muhammad noted that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the International Human Rights Standards underscore the fundamental right to a fair and speedy trial.
He observed that numerous individuals are languishing in prolonged pre-trial detention, often exceeding legal limits by years, thereby violating their rights, and contributing to prison overcrowding.
“Also observed that a significant number of these individuals are detained for minor offences requiring minimal or no extensive investigation”, he stated.
The lawmaker expressed concern that the delay in adjudicating legal matters results in prison congestion, violates the rights of the accused, and erodes public confidence in the judicial system.
“Alarmed that trial delays dissuade witness appearances and compromise the integrity of the judicial
process.
“Cognisant of the need to address this systemic injustice and uphold the fundamental right to a fair trial
for all”.
The motion was unanimously passed.