Police Chief Pushes Stronger ACJL Enforcement In Cross River
Strengthening Criminal Justice Through Training
The Commissioner of Police in Cross River State has called for the full implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL), stressing that continuous training of law enforcement personnel is essential to achieving meaningful justice sector reforms.
The police chief made the appeal during an engagement with stakeholders, highlighting that the ACJL remains a critical legal framework designed to modernise Nigeria’s criminal justice system. The law seeks to ensure faster trials, protect suspects’ rights, and eliminate outdated procedural practices that often delay justice delivery.
Despite its progressive provisions, the CP noted that implementation gaps persist, largely due to insufficient training and limited awareness among key actors in the justice system.
Bridging Knowledge Gaps in Law Enforcement
Central to the commissioner’s message was the need for structured and ongoing training of police officers and other justice sector personnel. He observed that many officers lack adequate knowledge of the ACJL’s provisions, which undermines its effectiveness.
Experts have consistently identified poor training and low awareness as major barriers to implementation. In Cross River, stakeholders have pointed out that without continuous capacity-building programmes, the law risks remaining largely theoretical rather than practical.
The CP stressed that equipping officers with the right legal knowledge would not only improve professionalism but also reduce cases of rights violations, unlawful detention, and procedural errors.
ACJL as a Tool for Justice Reform
The Administration of Criminal Justice Law represents a shift from older legal frameworks, introducing reforms aimed at transparency, accountability, and efficiency. Among its key provisions are safeguards against arbitrary arrests, provisions for speedy trials, and mechanisms to protect the rights of suspects.
However, the police boss warned that laws alone cannot transform the justice system without deliberate enforcement. He urged all stakeholders—including the judiciary, legal practitioners, and civil society—to collaborate in ensuring compliance.
Previous advocacy efforts by civil society organisations in the state have also emphasised that effective implementation of the ACJL could significantly reduce human rights abuses and improve public confidence in the justice system.
Call for Institutional Commitment
Beyond training, the CP called for stronger institutional commitment to the law. He noted that adequate funding, monitoring mechanisms, and inter-agency cooperation are necessary to achieve the intended outcomes of the ACJL.
Stakeholders have long argued that poor funding and weak enforcement structures continue to limit the law’s impact. Addressing these challenges, the commissioner said, would require a coordinated approach involving government agencies and oversight bodies.
Towards a More Efficient Justice System
The call for improved implementation reflects growing concern over delays in criminal trials and systemic inefficiencies. By prioritising training and compliance, the police leadership believes the ACJL can become a powerful tool for delivering timely and fair justice.
Ultimately, the commissioner’s message underscores a broader reform agenda—one that places professionalism, accountability, and human rights at the centre of Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
