CIDJAP 2024 Conference Report

Theme: Speedy Dispensation of Criminal Justice in Nigeria: The Role of Society
Venue: Ofuobi Africa Centre, Enugu
Date: 3rd October, 2024

Introduction:
The much-anticipated CIDJAP 2024 Conference on the Speedy Dispensation of Criminal Justice in Nigeria: The Role of Society was held on the 3rd of October at the Ofuobi Africa Centre, Enugu. The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including legal practitioners, government officials, law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders in the criminal justice system. The program, which focused on the crucial issue of improving the efficiency of criminal justice delivery in Nigeria, emphasized the responsibility of various societal actors in addressing the delays and bottlenecks that plague the system.

Arrival and Welcoming of Dignitaries (10:00 – 10:30 am)
The event commenced with the arrival of dignitaries and participants, who registered upon arrival and were warmly welcomed by the Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Moses Agbo. Attendees included high-ranking government officials, representatives from the judiciary, law enforcement officers, correctional service representatives, legal practitioners, academics, and civil society actors. Their presence demonstrated the shared commitment to enhancing the criminal justice system in Nigeria.

Opening Prayers and Formalities (10:30 – 11:00 am)
The formal opening of the conference began with an invocation, where prayers were offered to seek guidance for the day's deliberations. The attendees were then introduced to the theme of the conference, with remarks highlighting the urgent need for a reformed criminal justice system that ensures swift justice for all, especially for vulnerable groups.

An NGO Perspective: Reflecting the Reality of Bottlenecks in the Judicial System (11:00 – 11:30 am)
Barrister P.C. Egbuna, the Head of CIDJAP's Legal Unit, provided an insightful presentation from an NGO's perspective. He illuminated the realities of delays and inefficiencies in Nigeria's judicial system, attributing much of the stagnation to institutional challenges, inadequate infrastructure, and systemic corruption. His analysis underscored the disproportionate impact of these delays on marginalized communities, as well as the need for concerted efforts from both governmental and non-governmental actors to address the issues.

Keynote Session: Speedy Dispensation of Criminal Justice – The Role of Law and Justice (11:30 am – 1:00 pm)
The keynote session featured prominent speakers, each representing a critical component of the criminal justice system.
• Hon. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, the Enugu State Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, discussed the role of the Ministry of Justice, emphasizing ongoing reforms to streamline judicial processes and enhance collaboration between prosecutorial and investigative arms of the justice system.
• Hon. Chimaobi Obieze, from the Enugu State House of Assembly, spoke on the role of the Legislature in crafting laws that would expedite criminal proceedings. He also advocated for legislative oversight to ensure that justice institutions are held accountable for delays.

Delay in Criminal Justice Delivery: A Correctional Centers'Perspective (1:00 – 1:30 pm)
Controller Joseph Usifo from the Anambra State Correctional Division offered a perspective from correctional centers. He outlined the challenges faced by correctional facilities, including overcrowding, inadequate resources, and prolonged pre-trial detentions. He emphasized that reforms must address not only the judiciary but also correctional services to ensure justice is not delayed for those awaiting trial.

Panel Discussion: Perspectives on the Way Forward (1:30 – 3:00 pm)
The panel discussion, moderated by Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike, CIDJAP's Founding Director, brought together legal experts, civil society representatives, and members of the judiciary to discuss solutions for the speedy dispensation of criminal justice.

Panellists included:
• Barr. Chijioke Idu, Chairman of Magistrates Association, Enugu State
• Rev. Fr. Jude Isiguzo, Director of Carmelite Prisoners' Interest Organisation (CAPIO)
• Barr. Olusoga Omotayo, Founder/Director of Civil Right Realization and Advancement Network (CRRAN)
• Barr. Maxwell Ora, Vice Chairman Oji NBA

The discussions revolved around practical solutions for overcoming judicial delays, such as the adoption of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, improvements in law enforcement capacity, and the need for legal aid for indigent defendants. Panelists agreed that society, particularly through civil society organizations, has a crucial role in advocating for accountability and transparency in the criminal justice system.

Book Launch: "Character Matters/Integrity is Key" by Prof. Paschal Okolie (3:00 – 3:30 pm)
A significant highlight of the conference was the launch of Prof. Paschal Okolie's book, "Character Matters/Integrity is Key". The book explores the essential role that personal and institutional integrity plays in the efficient functioning of justice systems. The launch was well-received, with attendees expressing interest in the themes of ethics and accountability as vital components of justice delivery.

Award of Certificates and Closing Formalities (3:30 – 4:00 pm)
Certificates of participation were awarded to the dignitaries and contributors, recognizing their valuable input and commitment to improving Nigeria's criminal justice system. The event concluded with closing formalities, which included a vote of thanks to the organizers and participants. Prayers were offered to mark the close of the event, followed by refreshments.

The CIDJAP 2024 Conference succeeded in bringing critical issues regarding the Nigerian criminal justice system to the forefront of public discourse. The contributions from various sectors underscored the need for comprehensive reforms that address both structural inefficiencies and societal responsibilities. The event reaffirmed CIDJAP's role in advocating for a fair and effective justice system that ensures the speedy dispensation of justice for all.

CIDJAP 2024 Conference Report

CIDJAP 2024 Conference Report

CIDJAP 2024 Conference Report

CIDJAP 2024 Conference Report

CIDJAP 2024 Conference Report

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