FG bars Police from prosecuting cases

The Federal Government has barred the Nigerian Police Force from prosecuting criminal cases.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice disclosed this on Thursday, August 25, saying the decision is part of measures to reform the justice sector.

Malami said the action is in line with the provision of section 106 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, adding that the Act has transferred to the Federal Ministry of Justice, the responsibility of prosecuting all criminal matters.

According to a statement issued by Malami's media aide, Salihu Isah, the Ministry has so far taken over about 8000 case files from Police for prosecution.

He, however, said there is need for the judiciary to be transparent in the use of its powers as enshrined in Section 6(6)(c) of the 1999 constitution, as amended.

He expressed concern about the proliferation of counter judgments and orders by courts of coordinate jurisdiction, saying it amounts to abuse of the judicial process.

“Multiplicity of counter judgment and orders by the court of coordinate jurisdiction on the same matter does not encourage the desired confidence building in the judicial process,” Malami said.

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He added that the policy thrust of President Muhammadu Buhari is anchored on the fight against corruption, building a safer, secured nation and improving the economy that will provide answers to national interest questions that brought about the change.