Akure, Nigeria – The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Afam Osigwe, has revealed that over 65% of inmates in Nigeria’s 244 correctional facilities are awaiting trial. He raised concerns over the alarming number of detainees who remain behind bars without facing trial, often spending years in prison due to judicial delays.
Osigwe made this disclosure during the National Executive Council meeting of the NBA held on Thursday in Akure, Ondo State.
Concerns Over Prolonged Detention Without Trial
Addressing legal professionals at the event, Osigwe lamented the slow pace of justice, which has left many inmates languishing in prison without trial.
“We should focus on pre-trial detainees—those who are awaiting trial in court. They make up over 65% of the prison population,” he stated. “Many of them remain in detention without having their cases heard, while others spend more time in prison than they would have if convicted. Some contract diseases, and others die while awaiting trial.”
He stressed the need for urgent intervention to prevent the prolonged detention of suspects and ensure the justice system operates efficiently.
NBA’s Action Plan to Address the Crisis
Osigwe announced that the NBA had mandated its Human Rights Committee to work closely with the Chief Judges of various states to conduct regular prison visits. The committee will advocate for the release of individuals who have been detained without prosecution.
He urged Chief Judges to issue directives to magistrates to set return dates whenever remand orders are issued. If the prosecution or the Ministry of Justice fails to file charges within a reasonable time, courts should order the release of detainees to prevent indefinite detention.
“The courts, in line with the Police Act and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, should visit detention facilities, including those operated by the police, the army, the DSS, and the NDLEA. This will ensure that detainees are either released on bail, charged to court, or set free entirely,” Osigwe added.
He reaffirmed the NBA’s commitment to working with relevant authorities to ensure that no individual is unjustly detained for prolonged periods without trial.
Governor Aiyedatiwa Commends NBA’s Advocacy
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, commended the NBA’s efforts in addressing the issue of prolonged detention. Represented by the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Aiyedatiwa emphasized the need to strengthen professional unity among legal practitioners in the fight for justice.
“This is a time for introspection, decisive action, and a renewed commitment to the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law,” he stated.
Aiyedatiwa further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to championing legal reforms that ensure a fair and efficient judicial system for all Nigerians.
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