Advancing Accountability Through Oversight: AWJAI’s Monitoring Visit to Utako Police Station
In a steadfast commitment to strengthening transparency, protecting human rights, and promoting due process within Nigeria’s criminal justice system, the Asabe Waziri Justice Advocacy Initiative (AWJAI), in partnership with the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) and Citizens’ Gavel, carried out an oversight visit to the Utako Police Station on November 21, 2025. This exercise was conducted in alignment with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
Observations from Utako Police Station
During the monitoring exercise, the team interacted with 13 male detainees in custody. Following interviews and a review of their detention status:
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Five detainees were granted bail by the magistrate on duty.
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Clear directives were issued for all detainees to be promptly charged before a court of law.
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It was noted that several individuals had been held beyond the legally permissible detention timeframe, including one detainee who had spent two full weeks in custody without being presented in court.
The magistrate emphasized to officers the strict legal requirement prohibiting detention of suspects for more than 48 hours without arraignment, reiterating the need for full compliance with the ACJA.
While the cell facility was observed to be fairly clean and organized, with no visible signs of injury or torture on any detainee, the identified delay in arraignments highlights the persistent gaps that require sustained oversight and institutional reform. Protecting the rights and dignity of all persons in custody remains a crucial priority for building a just and accountable criminal justice system.
Two Locations, One Purpose: Strengthening Accountability Through Coordinated Oversight
In a continued effort to enhance transparency, uphold human rights, and reinforce due process within Nigeria’s criminal justice system, the Asabe Waziri Justice Advocacy Initiative (AWJAI), in collaboration with the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) and Citizens Gavel, conducted a joint oversight visit to the Karu and Nyanya Police Stations on October 27, 2025.
Observations from Karu and Nyanya Police Stations
During the monitoring exercise, the team engaged with two detainees at the Karu Police Station and ten detainees at the Nyanya Police Station. Following these assessments:
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The accompanying magistrate issued appropriate directives in line with the ACJA.
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Police officers were advised to explore out-of-court settlement mechanisms where applicable and lawful.
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One detainee was identified as requiring rehabilitation, and the necessary recommendation was made to ensure they receive appropriate support.
This oversight intervention underscores our sustained commitment to promoting accountability, strengthening police, citizen relations, and ensuring justice is delivered in accordance with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). Through collaboration and continuous monitoring, we move closer to building a system that respects dignity, fairness, and the rule of law.
Promoting Justice Through Oversight: AWJAI’s Monitoring Visit to Apo Police Station
In our commitment to promoting transparency, safeguarding human rights, and strengthening due process within Nigeria’s criminal justice system, the Asabe Waziri Justice Advocacy Initiative (AWJAI), in collaboration with the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC), Scale of Justice Foundation, and Citizens Gavel, conducted an oversight visit to the Apo Police Station in Abuja on November 11, 2025. His Worship, Magistrate Abdulmajid Oniyangi, led the judicial component of the exercise.
Observations from Apo Police Station
During the visit, fourteen detainees were found in custody and individually interviewed by the Magistrate. Following the assessments:
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Three detainees were granted bail immediately.
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Seven detainees remained under investigation; the Magistrate directed that each must be released or charged in court before the legally permissible detention period expires.
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Two detainees were transferred to the State CID for further investigation.
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Two others were taken directly before a court of law.
The Magistrate reiterated to officers the critical importance of strict compliance with legal standards governing arrest, detention, and arraignment, emphasizing that unlawful or prolonged detention is a clear violation of the ACJA.
While the station environment was generally orderly and in good condition, an unpleasant odour from the cells highlighted the ongoing need for improved hygiene and humane detention conditions. The monitoring team received full cooperation from most officers on duty, although a few instances of rude conduct underscored the need for continuous sensitization and professional accountability.
This oversight mission reaffirms AWJAI’s dedication to fostering a justice system rooted in dignity, fairness, and respect for the rule of law.
Ensuring Accountability Through Oversight: AWJAI’s Monitoring Visit to Bwari and Ushafa Police Stations
In line with our mission to promote transparency, protect human rights, and strengthen due process within Nigeria’s criminal justice system, the Asabe Waziri Justice Advocacy Initiative (AWJAI) joined the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC), Citizens’ Gavel, and the PPDC on a routine police monitoring visit on November 17, 2025. The exercise was led by Her Worship, Magistrate Chiemena Okoronkwo.
Observations from Bwari Police Station
The first stop was the Bwari Police Station, where the team interviewed ten detainees. Most of the individuals were still within the legally permissible detention timeframe, with several cases undergoing active investigation.
Observations from Ushafa Police Station
At the Ushafa Police Station, the monitoring team met two detainees who had only been brought in earlier that morning. The officers on duty were cooperative throughout the visit, and the Magistrate reiterated the purpose of these oversight exercises, to safeguard detainees’ rights, promote transparency, and prevent unlawful or prolonged detention.
This monitoring activity reinforces AWJAI’s commitment to ensuring that no one is overlooked within the justice system. Through continuous oversight visits, legal assistance, and sustained rights advocacy, we strive to protect the vulnerable and support a criminal justice system rooted in fairness, dignity, and accountability.
