AGF, Stakeholders Seek Uniformity on Implementation of ACJA 2015

…Adopt National Minimum Standards

By: Michael Mike

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, along with key stakeholders in the justice sector, have taken significant steps to ensure uniformity in the implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.

Fagbemi announced this development at the weekend in Abuja, at the conclusion of the stakeholders’ meeting for the inauguration of the committee for the review and validation of the national minimum standards documents on the implementation of the ACJA. Organized by the Federal Ministry of Justice with support from the European Union-funded Rule of Law and Anti-corruption (RoLAC-II) Programme of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), the event culminated in the adoption of the National Minimum Standards Document 2024 on the implementation of the Act.

Speakers at the event emphasized that the introduction of the National Minimum Standards will significantly enhance the effective implementation of the ACJA, 2015. The RoLAC-II Programme aims to improve the performance, quality, and oversight of the criminal justice system and justice service delivery in Nigeria.

According to Mr. Badejogbin Oluwatoyin, Manager of Component 1 – Criminal Justice Reform under the RoLAC-II Programme, the project aims to establish a national scheme for assessing and evaluating the implementation of the ACJA/ACJLs and a national scoresheet indicating the performance of each state. This initiative seeks to provide a common basis for evaluating the implementation of criminal justice reforms, promote healthy competition among states, and attract more resources to the criminal justice sector.

The document covers several areas, including pre-trial case management, witness support, case filtering and timelines, bail, remand protocol, trial case management, and post-trial procedures. Participants also encouraged the use of plea bargains and agreed that the stay of trial proceedings due to an interlocutory application or appeal should be prohibited.

The National Minimum Standards for the Implementation of ACJA 2015 were designed to consolidate rule of law and anti-corruption reforms, a key component of the programme aimed at enhancing the criminal justice system and justice service delivery in the Federal Capital Territory, Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Kano, Lagos, and Plateau states.

During his presentation, Professor Yemi Akinseye-George of the Center for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS) emphasized the need to deepen the implementation of the ACJA and the ACJLs of States.

In a keynote address, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, represented by the Solicitor General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Beatrice Jessy-Agba, noted that the federal government enacted the ACJA in 2015 to ensure harmonious implementation of criminal justice reforms across the federation. He explained that the Act promotes efficient management of criminal justice institutions, speedy dispensation of justice, and the protection of the rights and interests of suspects, defendants, and victims in Nigeria.

“The adoption of the Act by States ensures that offenders cannot escape justice by moving from state to state, a practice commonly known as forum shopping. Improved and uniform implementation of criminal justice reforms across the country will leave no escape route for criminals, contributing to socio-economic development in Nigeria,” he said.

He added that the National Minimum Standards have been developed to implement the ACJA and consolidate collaboration between stakeholders in justice delivery by ensuring that courts at both the federal and state levels apply similar standards in criminal procedures and enforcement of criminal justice.

Chairman of the Body of States Attorneys-General, Dr. Ben Odoh, represented by Nassarawa AG, Labaran Shaibu Magaji, described the initiative as significant, capable of creating a balanced and inclusive justice system that safeguards the rights of all parties and strengthens legal frameworks.

Other speakers included representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Nigerian Police, ICPC, EFCC, and NCoS, among others.

In her welcome address, Director of the Administration of Criminal Justice and Reform Department (ACJRD) at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Leticia Ayoola-Daniels, stated that the initiative stems from the growing need for a unified framework to address persistent gaps in the implementation of the ACJA and ACJLs across the country. She identified challenges such as court congestion, unavailability of data, delayed trials, and a lack of uniformity in criminal justice processes, assuring that finalizing the document will significantly address these issues.

RoLAC representative Mr. Peter Omenka stressed that the entity will continue to support the process and create awareness to ensure the documents are translated into different languages.

“RoLAC is ready to support the process, create awareness in such a way that the documents is translated into different languages,” he said.

AGF, Stakeholders Seek Uniformity on Implementation of ACJA 2015

Troops deactivate illegal bunkering sites, arrest suspects, recover arms in Niger Delta

By: Michael Mike

• Army cracks down on oil theft and sabotage, seizes over 118,000 litres of stolen products

Troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have intensified operations against illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta.
In a statement Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations Lieut. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma said over the past week, 11 suspects were arrested, more than 20 illegal bunkering sites were deactivated, and 22 boats used for criminal activities were intercepted.
He added that six firearms and cartridges were recovered, along with over 118,000 litres of stolen oil products.
He said in Rivers State, multiple operations were conducted, including the dismantling of four illegal refineries and the interception of 35,000 litres of stolen products in the Jigama-Bille area of Degema Local Government Area (LGA). Similarly, in Krakarma-Bille, troops deactivated four illegal refining sites, seizing 14,000 litres of stolen automotive gas oil and 8,000 litres of crude oil. In the Orashi River area, 5,500 litres of condensate were recovered, and one suspect was arrested for pipeline vandalism near the Nigerian Agip Oil Company in Ogba/Ndoni/Egbema LGA.

Danjuma said in Bayelsa State, troops deactivated an illegal refining site in Nembe LGA, confiscating over 30,000 litres of stolen oil. In Southern Ijaw LGA, two active illegal refining sites were dismantled, and 4,500 litres of stolen products were seized. Additional operations in the Tobo, Obotoro, and Arugba Creeks recovered over 15,000 litres of illegally refined products and identified illegal pipeline connections near Idu Wellhead 4.
He said in Delta State also saw significant actions as troops intercepted a Lexus RX 350 carrying three suspects and recovered five pump-action rifles, one Dane gun, and 51 cartridges. The suspects have been handed over to security authorities for further investigation. In Warri South LGA, troops intercepted a wooden boat siphoning crude oil from an Opumami Oil Field wellhead. Several illegal refining sites were deactivated in Benneth Island, leading to the recovery of over 7,500 litres of stolen crude.
Danjuma said the troops also maintained heightened security patrols in Akwa Ibom State to prevent criminal activities in both hinterlands and waterways.
Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding 6 Division, commended the troops for their efforts and vowed to sustain operations to safeguard national assets and infrastructure in the region.

Troops deactivate illegal bunkering sites, arrest suspects, recover arms in Niger Delta

Rep Onuigbo Calls for Climate Plans to Tackle North East’s Environmental , Security Challenges

By: Melvin Uche

The inaugural North-East Climate Change Summit and Retreat, held on September 16-19, 2024, at the International Conference Center in Gombe, sparked a passionate call for climate action. The event, hosted by the North-East Development Commission, centered on the theme “Leveraging Climate Action for the Sustainable Development of North-East Nigeria.” During his address, Rep. Sir Sam Onuigbo, who represented Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, and Member (South East) & Chairman Committee on Security, Climate Change & Special Interventions North East Development Commission ( NEDC ) highlighted the severe climate challenges that threaten agriculture, security, and the overall livelihoods in the region.

Onuigbo stressed the urgent need to address environmental crises such as land degradation, desertification, and recurring droughts that have crippled agricultural productivity in the North-East. These environmental challenges have compounded the region’s long-standing issues of insecurity, inadequate skills development, education, and technological advancement, leaving millions vulnerable.

Drawing from international frameworks, including the United Nations General Assembly’s 2009 Resolution on Climate Change and the 2017 UN Security Council Resolution, Onuigbo pointed out that climate change amplifies security risks in the North-East. “Environmental degradation has fueled resource conflicts, migration, and displacement, which, in turn, worsen the region’s security issues,” Onuigbo stated.

While Africa contributes only about 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the continent is disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change. Onuigbo underscored that Nigeria, especially the North-East, is facing devastating effects, from desertification to the drying up of Lake Chad. The impact on agriculture, which sustains the region’s economy, is particularly alarming, with rising food insecurity driving migration and heightening conflicts.

Onuigbo, who is widely called the father of climate change in Nigeria, praised Nigeria’s recent legislative strides, including the Climate Change Act 2021, which he sponsored, and the Electricity Act 2023, which creates pathways for sustainable development and renewable energy adoption. “These laws are essential for integrating climate resilience into agriculture, energy, and education, and for fostering economic growth,” he noted.

Highlighting national initiatives like the Energy Transition Plan (2021) and the Great Green Wall Initiative, Onuigbo emphasized their critical role in mitigating climate risks and promoting sustainable land use in the North-East. He urged the region to take advantage of international funding opportunities, such as the World Bank’s $3 billion annual fund for climate-smart agriculture.

Rep. Onuigbo also addressed the direct link between climate change and the region’s security challenges. “Droughts and resource scarcity are pushing communities into conflict over land, water, and grazing rights,” he warned. The resulting tensions have fueled insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes.

While outlining these grim realities, Onuigbo offered a hopeful vision for the future. He advocated for the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices and renewable energy solutions to boost productivity, generate revenue, and create sustainable livelihoods. “The North-East’s agricultural potential can be unlocked with the right investments in technology and climate-smart practices,” he said.

The Electricity Act 2023, which decentralizes electricity generation, was lauded by Onuigbo as a game-changer for energy access in the region. He urged state governments to invest in renewable energy projects that co inuld power industries and households, improving living conditions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. “The North-East’s topography is perfect for renewable energy projects,” he added, citing the decreasing costs of solar and wind power as a promising development.

Onuigbo also called for the establishment of state-level climate governance frameworks, urging governments to adopt robust climate action plans with clear, measurable goals. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness on climate issues, particularly among vulnerable groups like women, youth, and the elderly, who are often the most affected.

Onuigbo’s optimistic outlook on leveraging climate action for regional development set the tone for the latter part of the summit, where further discussions explored practical steps for implementation. He pointed out that COP28’s global commitment to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 presents unprecedented opportunities for the North-East to become a hub for clean energy and sustainable agriculture. He cited the plummeting costs of renewable energy as an opportunity the region must not miss.

Onuigbo also referenced alarming global health statistics, including those shared by Dr. Tedros A. Ghebreyesos, Director General of the World Health Organization, on the deadly effects of household pollution from dirty cooking fuels. “Clean energy is not just about economics—it’s about saving lives,” Onuigbo said, highlighting the importance of renewable energy in reducing household air pollution, which claims millions of lives globally each year.

Onuigbo also highlighted the dangers faced by vulnerable populations, especially pregnant women, due to extreme heat and poor working conditions. “Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is already impacting lives, livelihoods, and security,” he said.

In his closing remarks, Onuigbo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for making food security a priority in his administration’s agenda and for spearheading efforts toward energy transition and climate change mitigation. He also acknowledged the North-East governors for establishing the North-East Governors’ Forum, which serves as a vital platform for addressing regional climate challenges.

He praised the leadership of the North-East Development Commission for organizing the summit at such a critical time, stating that “this collective action is what is needed to transform the region’s future.”

In his parting message, Onuigbo left the audience with a bold vision: “The North-East has the resources, human capital, and global momentum to overcome these challenges. By embracing renewable energy, investing in climate-smart agriculture, and building resilient infrastructure, the region can position itself as a key player in the global economy.”

As Nigeria and the world move toward a low-carbon future, the North-East region stands at a crossroads. The decisions made today will shape not only the region’s future but also its role in addressing global climate challenges.

Rep Onuigbo Calls for Climate Plans to Tackle North East’s Environmental , Security Challenges