A nongovernmental organization that promotes public safety, security, and justice through empirical research, legislative advocacy, and demonstration program in partnership with the government, civil society, and private sector, CLEEN Foundation, has launched a civil society observatory platform towards efficient implementation and compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJA).
The launching of the platform was held on Wednesday at Best Western Plus – Elomaz Hotel, Asaba, Delta State capital, and was attended by representatives from different civil society organizations in the state.
The Observatory platform aims to facilitate the exchange of ideas for problem-solving between the civil society observatory and criminal justice actors for the smooth implementation of ACJA in the focal states. Effective tracking of compliance level to ACJA against the backdrop of the minimum standards, and efficient documentation of court proceedings on corruption-related cases to underscore strict compliance to the provisions of ACJA/ACJL, to deepening the institutionalization of continuous learning on the ACJA/ACJL.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of the CLEEN Foundation, Mr. Gad Peter stated that the main objectives of the ACJA as found in Section 1 of the Act, are to promote efficient management of criminal justice institutions, provide speedy dispensation of justice, and protect the society from crime while defending the rights and the interest of the defendant and the victim. According to him, these indicate a deliberate shift from punishment which is the main goal of criminal justice to restorative justice which pays attention to the needs of society, the victims, vulnerable persons, and human dignity.
Mr. Peter stated that the establishment of the civil society observatory group on the Administration of Criminal Justice Reform is to independently monitor the compliance rate of stakeholders to the unique provisions of the ACJA/L, as a critical step towards promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in the country. Adding that it requires a strong commitment from stakeholders, the development of a clear governance structure, and a focus on achieving tangible outcomes.