Conflict of roles weakens due process in Nigeria’s criminal justice system – Argungu

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu, raised urgent concerns about Nigeria’s struggling criminal justice system during a recent Abuja workshop.

Organized by CLEEN Foundation and the Nigeria Police Force, the event brought together security agencies and justice stakeholders to evaluate implementation gaps.

Argungu stressed that overlapping mandates between institutions create confusion and hinder proper justice delivery.

He painted a troubling picture of systemic failures during his keynote address, pointing to poorly defined roles among law enforcement bodies. These unclear boundaries frequently lead to unnecessary conflicts between agencies that should be working together. The retired police chief described how such internal rivalries waste resources and weaken public trust in institutions meant to protect citizens.

Financial constraints emerged as another critical challenge crippling the justice system’s effectiveness. Argungu explained how inadequate funding prevents proper investigations, evidence collection and timely prosecutions. Meanwhile, rapid technological changes have left laws struggling to keep pace with modern crimes like cyber fraud and digital evidence handling. The justice framework remains stuck in outdated processes while criminals exploit new opportunities.

Political interference further complicates matters according to the PSC chairman. When criminal cases become politicized, it distorts justice and protects powerful offenders. Argungu also highlighted damaging internal conflicts within agencies, where personal rivalries sometimes overshadow professional duties. These issues collectively undermine Nigeria’s ability to deliver fair and efficient justice.

The solution requires comprehensive reforms at both federal and state levels Argungu insisted. He called for revised laws that clarify each institution’s responsibilities while improving inter-agency collaboration. The chairman specifically urged legislative bodies to modernize Nigeria’s legal framework to address 21st century challenges. Without such updates, the system will keep failing both victims and the accused.

Capacity building formed another key part of Argungu’s recommendations. He proposed specialized training for investigators and prosecutors on handling digital evidence and international legal cooperation. The Ministry of Justice could organize workshops to improve skills in complex areas like mutual legal assistance for cross-border crimes. Such knowledge gaps currently hamper many cases.

Argungu appealed for stronger coordination between all justice sector institutions including courts, police and correctional services. When one component fails, he warned, the entire system suffers. The human rights commission should help ensure all agencies respect due process while fighting crime. Only through such cooperation can Nigeria build public confidence in criminal justice.

The chairman concluded with a call for collective action from government and citizens alike. Meaningful reforms require sustained pressure and participation from all stakeholders. Argungu’s stark assessment highlights how Nigeria’s justice system must evolve to meet contemporary challenges while protecting fundamental rights.

The alternative is continued dysfunction that serves neither victims nor society.

This frank discussion comes amid growing concerns about case backlogs, rights violations and uneven justice across Nigeria.

While the problems appear daunting, Argungu’s roadmap offers concrete steps toward meaningful improvement.

Whether authorities implement these recommendations may determine if Nigeria can build a justice system worthy of its citizens’ trust.

The time for action is now before current weaknesses further erode the rule of law.

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