On January 15, 2025, AWJAI, in collaboration with the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC), Hope Behind Bars Africa (HBBA), and the Neriah Hope and Light Foundation, conducted an oversight visit to the Apo Divisional Police Station, FCT Command. Led by His Worship, Abdulmajid Oniyangi, the visit was carried out in accordance with Section 34 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
During the visit, we uncovered multiple cases of detainees held beyond the legally permitted 48-hour detention period. One particularly troubling case was that of Mr. John (30), who alleged he was wrongfully arrested in place of his brother – a direct violation of Section 7 of the ACJA. While the police justified his detention on grounds of conspiracy, the Magistrate ruled that he must either be released on bail or formally charged in court, as his detention had already exceeded the legal limit. His Worship further instructed AWJAI to monitor and follow up on Mr. John’s case. Thanks to our legal team’s swift and persistent intervention, Mr. John was released on bail from police detention on January 17, 2025.
Beyond legal advocacy, our team also took steps to address ongoing concerns about detainee welfare. Building on issues identified in previous visits, AWJAI and HBBA donated sanitary items to improve hygiene conditions within the station. This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring that justice extends beyond legal rights to encompass dignity, humane treatment, and basic living conditions for all detainees.
By joining forces, AWJAI and its partners demonstrated the power of collective action to uphold human rights and push for systemic change within the criminal justice system. This collaboration underscores the importance of community-driven advocacy – not just to secure justice for individuals like Mr. John, but to create a more just and humane system for all.
