As the ACJA marks its tenth year of implementation, we can proudly acknowledge its transformative impact on Nigeria’s criminal justice landscape — Akinseye-George, SAN

Remarks by Professor Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN, at the One-Day Stakeholders’ Review Meeting on the Draft ACJA Amendment Bill

My Lords,

Hon. Attorney-General of the Federation & Minister of Justice

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen,

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to this pivotal stakeholders’ meeting convened to review the latest version of the draft amendments to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.

This meeting is being hosted by the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice, and with the valued support of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, funded by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IIDEA). We deeply appreciate this support.

Today’s gathering provides an opportunity for stakeholders from across the criminal justice spectrum to examine, critique, and refine the proposed amendments to this landmark legislation. I congratulate each of you on your nomination by your respective agencies to be part of this important dialogue. Your presence is not only a reflection of your expertise, but also of your agency’s commitment to justice reform.

As you are aware, the proposed ACJA Amendment Bill was passed by the House of Representatives in 2023 and is currently before the Senate. While we had hoped the Senate would have concluded its review by now, the delay has created an opening—a rare window for us as stakeholders to make further improvements before its passage.

In the intervening period, the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC), alongside other key actors, has put forward additional suggestions aimed at closing gaps and strengthening the Bill. This meeting is therefore essential in harmonizing diverse views and consolidating them into a final version that meets the needs of our evolving justice system.

As the ACJA marks its tenth year of implementation, we can proudly acknowledge its transformative impact on Nigeria’s criminal justice landscape. The Act has unified procedures across the Federation, replacing the old dichotomy between the Criminal Procedure Act in the South and the Criminal Procedure Code in the North. Its adoption by all 36 States is a testament to its national significance and success.

Yet, as with all laws, there is room for growth. The proposed amendments seek to respond to practical challenges and emerging trends in justice delivery. Key highlights include:

Institutionalizing mandatory pre-trial case management;

Reforming the problematic ‘trial-within-trial’ approach;

Legalizing the use of witness depositions;

Introducing plea forms to simplify arraignments;

Strengthening non-custodial sentencing measures;

Advancing the digitization of court processes;

Eliminating de novo trials following judge transfer, retirement, or death;

Enhancing the institutional framework and functions of the ACJMC;

And aligning the ACJA with the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, particularly on non-custodial measures.

At the conclusion of today’s deliberations, CSLS and the Federal Ministry of Justice will compile your valuable contributions and re-engage with the National Assembly in a bid to revive and fast-track the legislative process.

I wish to use this platform to make a passionate appeal to the leadership of the National Assembly: Let us not allow this opportunity to slip by. The country urgently needs a stronger and more responsive criminal justice system.

I would also like to extend our deep appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Justice, especially the Department of Criminal Justice Reform, for its steadfast partnership and commitment. We are especially grateful for the enabling support of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, FNIALS, whose open-door leadership style continues to inspire collaboration.

Our thanks also go to the Honourable Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice J.T. Tsoho, and the Honourable Chief Judge of the FCT, Hon. Justice Yusuf Baba, for their support. We salute the heads of various criminal justice agencies represented here for their dedication to reform.

A special recognition goes to our partners in the media who have consistently amplified our efforts and ensured that justice reform remains on the national agenda.

Before I conclude, let us not forget the tragic events unfolding in parts of our country. We mourn the senseless loss of innocent lives in Benue, Plateau, and other conflict-ridden areas. These atrocities remind us of the urgent need for peace-building and justice. A strengthened criminal justice system is not just about trials—it is about prevention, accountability, healing, and peace.

Let us, therefore, approach today’s meeting with a sense of duty and resolve. Together, we can help shape a justice system that truly serves the people.

Once again, I warmly welcome you and wish us all productive deliberations.

Thank you.

Professor Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN

President, Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS)

Abuja, 19th June 2025