By Odo Ogenyi, Uyo
A human rights group, COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peacebuilding has
congratulated Akwa Ibom government for public presentation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, ACJL, but has requested for a monitoring committee to ensure effective implementation of the law.
The group which made the request in a letter to the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice endorsed by it’s Executive Director, Barr Saviour Akpan and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Thursday commended Governor Udom Emmanuel’s administration for being among states that have adopted the ACJ Law.
It stressed that the Law when fully implemented would strengthen public confidence in the justice system and security institutions and reduce or eradicate practices of jungle justice as a result of lack of public confidence in the justice system.
“We are writing most respectfully to record our appreciation and to congratulate you, the Executive Governor, and the Speaker of Akwa Ibom state House of Assembly over the final Gazetted copy and public presentation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, ACJL-2022 of the State.
“We are happy that Akwa Ibom State today under your able leadership as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice is counted among states that have in place an Administration of Criminal Justice Law and extension to other related matters in the courts of the state. We say a big thanks and Congratulations.
“With the lofty purpose of the law, we urge most respectfully not to wait for “local circumstances” permission before hitting the ground running towards a sincere and non-discriminatory implementation of this law in the state.
The Foundation however said a monitoring committee would increase adherence and give direction and guide to the Judiciary.
“We sincerely request as a first step, for the establishment of the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee in accordance with the provision of sections 467 – 474 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Akwa Ibom State 2022.
“That, we believe will spur institutional respect and adherence to the provision of the law towards effective implementation and also, guide the Judiciary under the headship of the Chief Judge of the State to issue a Practice Direction on the ACJL in the State taking a cue from our close door neighbour, Rivers State.
“It will also help to make the Courts, Law Enforcement Agencies and other authorities involved in criminal justice administration to comply with the provisions of the law for the realization of its purposes as contained in section 1 (2) of the Akwa Ibom State ACJL, 2022.” It stressed.
The group assured of its contribution towards the lofty provisions and purpose of the Law through intensified media sensitization of the citizens and residents.
“We look forward to a sustainable working relationship with the different Ministries Department and Agencies involved in the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedom in the state and beyond especially the Police.” The letter concluded.
