Enforcing The Law To End Illegal Detention

Enforcing The Law To End Illegal Detention

 Enforcing The Law To End Illegal Detention

Nigerian lawyer, Pius Iwoke, was recently released after three years in detention without trial, thanks to the intervention of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Yakubu Mikyau SAN. This highlights the need for the NBA to intervene in similar cases and ensure the release of thousands of indigent citizens illegally detained in various facilities across the country.

Legal Provisions

The Administration of Criminal Justice Act (2015) and Police Establishment Act (2020) mandate Chief Magistrates and Judges to conduct monthly inspections of police stations and detention facilities to:
Inspect arrest records
Direct arraignment of suspects
Grant bail where appropriate
Defaulting officers shall be treated as misconduct and dealt with accordingly.

Call To Action
Femi Falana SAN urges the NBA to:
Liaise with Chief Judges to ensure monthly inspections
Direct human rights committees to accompany Magistrates and Judges on inspections
Mobilize citizens to monitor inspections
Ensure appointment of a legal practitioner to monitor human rights in police stations

Collaboration
The Law Students Society of the University of Ilorin is encouraged to collaborate with the NBA in Kwara State to monitor inspections and minimize unlawful arrests and detention.

Conclusion
Enforcing these legal provisions is crucial to ending illegal detention and ensuring justice for all.