Reforming Pre-Trial Detention in Nigeria Phase II

Reforming Pre-Trial Detention in Nigeria Phase II

Addressing challenges of pre-trial detention through reforms, legal support, and capacity building.

About RPDN II

With support from the US Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is currently implementing Phase II of the Reducing Pre-Trial Detention in Nigeria.

The purpose of this project is to implement Phase II of the Reforming Pre-Trial Detention in Nigeria project. By the end of the three-year period of performance, PPDC will increase the capability of Nigeria's corrections and judicial sectors, with assistance from Nigeria's law schools and local bar associations, in properly handling pre-trial detainees to carry out justice, ensure rule of law, and build public confidence in the country's justice process. PPDC shall build the capacity of the relevant officials in Nigeria's corrections and judicial officials in the select states and corrections institutions on the defined phases of their work so that the relevant officials are able to properly handle and facilitate necessary legal and other services for pre-trial detainees. Moreover, ACJMC, judicial officials, and corrections staff exhibit increased collaboration during the conduct of pre-trial detention cases.

Reforming Pre-Trial Detention
Reforming Pre-Trial Detention

Project Objectives

1

Enhance Technological Capacity and Reducing Pre-Trial Detention in Custodial Centers

The objective is to ensure that the Government of Nigeria (GoN) possesses the necessary technological capacity within Custodial Centers, specifically targeting select states and three women's correctional facilities. This capacity will be geared towards safeguarding the rights of pre-trial detainees in accordance with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA)

2

Ensure Access to Legal Aid and Pre-Trial Services for Detainees

The objective is to ensure that pre-trial detainees have access to quality legal representation and pre-trial services, including bail applications, case management, and legal counseling, to protect their rights and facilitate fair and timely justice delivery.

3

Enhance The Coordination and Communication for Effective ACJA Implementation

Our objective is to establish and maintain a level of coordination and communication among the Administrative of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC), other key stakeholders within the criminal justice system, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that is not only adequate but also conducive to the effective implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA)

Providing Legal Representation to pre-trial Detainees

200+

Pro Bono Lawyers

5

States

538

Pre-Trial Detainees Represented

538

Pre-Trial Detainees Represented

34

Released on Bail

15

Discharged and Acquitted

OUR PROGRESS

Since we started offering Pro Bono Legal Representation in May 2024

As of September 30, 2022, data from the Nigerian Correctional Service reveals that Nigerian corrections house 76,189 inmates, with a staggering 53,710 (70%) being pre-trial detainees. Many of these individuals are held in dire conditions for years, often for minor offenses.

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