By Tambaya Julius
In an effort to uphold the rule of law, Kano Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, urged criminal case investigators and prosecutors to familiarize themselves with the state’s Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) 2019.
With its extensive 471 sections, including Appendices and Forms, this law offers innovative provisions that empower investigators and prosecutors to carry out their roles without infringing upon the rights of suspects.
Governor Yusuf conveyed this message through Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Umar (rtd), the Director-General of Special Duties at Kano Government House.
He inaugurated a one-day workshop for 100 Police Prosecutors and Investigators, a joint effort by the state Police Command and the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN), held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Bompai.
The Governor stressed that a thorough understanding of the ACJ (2019) Law by prosecutors and investigators would streamline the administration of justice within the judiciary, fostering a more efficient and expeditious process.
He lauded Mr. Mohammed Usaini Gumel, the state Commissioner of Police, for initiating the workshop and assured continued support for projects that enhance the capabilities of police officers, ultimately contributing to peace and order in the state.
During the workshop, participants were encouraged to leverage the insights gained to foster greater collaboration between investigators and prosecutors.
Chief Magistrate Aminu US man Fagge, the state Chairman of MAN, praised Commissioner of Police Mr. Gumel’s initiatives, commending his commitment to strengthening the connection between the judiciary and law enforcement agencies.
This partnership not only enhances relations but also bolsters the skills and competencies of officers within the Command.
Highlighting the significance of the workshop, Chief Magistrate Fagge noted that its purpose is to provide technical assistance and capacity-building for police officers.
The aim is to ensure compliance with the relevant provisions of the ACJ Law 2019.
He underlined the need for consistent sensitization and training, acknowledging that law enforcement agencies require ongoing support to effectively implement the law.
In his address, Commissioner of Police Gumel expressed his excitement about the workshop, deeming it a historic moment for the Kano state Police Command.
This initiative aligns with the objectives of the Police Act, 2020, which seeks to enhance the responsiveness of the Police Force to public needs and perceptions.
By strengthening the capacities of the police, including investigators and prosecutors, the Act strives to foster a positive change in public perception and ensure safety and security across Nigeria.
CP Gumel emphasized that the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL), 2019 brought about significant reforms that impact the prosecutorial and investigative functions of the police.
Acknowledging these changes, he underscored the importance of proper sensitization to facilitate compliance and implementation, ultimately contributing to a more effective and just criminal justice system.
This event marks a pivotal step towards fostering a stronger collaboration between investigators, prosecutors, and law enforcement agencies.
The commitment of both the Kano state Police Command and the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN) underscores the shared goal of upholding the rule of law while promoting effective administration of justice.
