Upholding the ACJA: Monitoring Visit at Wuse Division

As part of its ongoing police oversight initiative, the Asabe Waziri Justice Advocacy Initiative (AWJAI), in collaboration with the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) and Citizens Gavel, conducted a monitoring visit to the Wuse Police Station. The visit was led by Senior Magistrate Theresa Otu.

During the visit, the team interviewed eleven detainees: ten males and one female. After reviewing their cases, Magistrate Otu issued directives for the detainees to either be released on bail or charged to court, in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.

It was observed that two individuals had exceeded the legally permitted detention period. The Magistrate gave a clear order that they must not be held beyond that day and instructed the police to take immediate steps to comply with the law.

This visit also marked the first interaction between the oversight team and the newly posted Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Nimyel Ponfa. The DPO reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the station under his leadership adheres strictly to legal standards and expressed his willingness to work closely with the ACJMC and its partners to promote accountability and uphold the rule of law.

The visit underscores the critical role that AWJAI plays in promoting transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights within the criminal justice system. Through regular monitoring visits, AWJAI works to ensure that police stations comply with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), particularly regarding the lawful detention of suspects.