July 2026 Police Oversight Visits Across the FCT

In July 2026, the Asabe Waziri Justice Advocacy Initiative (AWJAI), in collaboration with the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC), Citizens’ Gavel, Equal Justice Initiative, and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), participated in detention facility oversight visits across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The team visited:

• Nigerian Police Force Detention Facilities
• Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Headquarters
• Nigeria Immigration Service Holding Centre
• National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP)

The visits provided an opportunity to engage with persons in custody, review detention conditions, and assess compliance with legal and human rights standards.

What We Found and Did

During the oversight visits, the team reviewed detention records, engaged with detainees, and followed up on the progress of individual cases. The visits resulted in the following outcomes:

• 6 detainees charged to court
• 3 detainees granted bail
• 5 detainees released with caution

The team also assessed detention conditions and identified issues requiring continued attention and engagement with the relevant authorities.

Why Oversight Matters

Independent monitoring of places of detention plays an important role in protecting the rights of persons in custody and promoting accountability within the criminal justice system.

Regular oversight visits help to:

• Review the legality and circumstances of detention.
• Identify unnecessary delays in investigations and case processing.
• Safeguard the rights and dignity of persons in custody.
• Promote compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and other applicable legal standards.
• Strengthen transparency and accountability across justice institutions.

Every oversight visit provides an opportunity to ensure that no individual is forgotten within the justice system and that detention remains subject to lawful oversight.

AWJAI’s Commitment

AWJAI remains committed to working alongside ACJMC and other justice sector partners to strengthen accountability, protect the rights of persons in custody, and promote access to justice across Nigeria. Through sustained oversight, legal advocacy, and collaboration with relevant institutions, we continue to work towards a justice system that is fair, transparent, and respectful of the rights and dignity of every individual.