Cleen foundation conducts step-down training for stakeholders on administration of ACJA
Samuel Luka, Bauchi
Centre for Law Enforcement Education (CLEEN) Foundation has conducted a step-down training and mentorship session Programme for 30 Stakeholders to strengthen smooth administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) in Bauchi state.
Been supported by MacArthur Foundation, Cleen has trained many stakeholders in the administration of justice to be conversant with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 which has been domesticated by some states in Nigeria, including Bauchi state.
In his welcoming remarks during the step-down training at the Chartwell Hotel, Bauchi, the Executive Director of the Foundation, Gad Peter said it was important that those entrusted with the mandate of upholding the law be better equipped with the latest tools to enable them discharge their responsibilities effectively.
“In our quest to ensure that the wheels of justice turn smoothly, it is paramount that those who are entrusted with upholding the law and administering justice are equipped with the latest tools, knowledge, and insights”, he explained.
According to him, the training embodies that ethos – a dynamic platform where experiences, expertise, and perspectives converge to pave the way for enhanced practices and outcomes in the criminal justice landscape.
Peter noted that the trainees, as criminal justice actors, individually holds a unique role that extends far beyond mere legalities and procedures.
“You are the guardians of rights, the stewards of due process, and the voices for those who often stand voiceless. It is with this profound responsibility in mind that we have gathered here today, united in our commitment to excellence and equity”, the Executive Director said.
He said that the trainees would have the opportunity during the training to delve into a diverse range of topics, engage in interactive discussions, and exchange invaluable insights with their peers.
“The knowledge you acquire and the skills you hone will undoubtedly ripple through courtrooms, correctional facilities, and law enforcement agencies, shaping the very essence of our criminal justice system”, Mr. Peter further anticipated.
He pointed out that the training will serve as a compass guiding the participants towards a future where fairness, transparency, and rehabilitation stands as pillars of collective efforts.
The Executive Director stated that the dedication of the trainees speaks volumes about their commitment to the principles that underpin a just society.
While appreciating the participants for honoring the invitation, Peter described their presence as testament to their unwavering dedication to continuous improvement in seeing to the effective and efficient administration of criminal justice Act.
“As we embark on this enriching journey of learning, collaboration, and empowerment, let us keep in mind the countless lives that stand to benefit from the strides we take here”, he said.
A participant, Ortese Felix Mimi from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Bauchi, said with the introduction of ACJA lesser cases of human rights violations are being recorded.
Felix who represented the Bauchi state Coordinator of the NHRC observed that with the coming of ACJA, the police and other law enforcement agencies are using the Act which has led to reduction in violation of rights of the citizens.
Felix while acknowledging that the ACJA has helped very well, expressed optimisms that if the compliance with the Act is sustained, there will be so much reduction in human rights violation of both offender and the offended.
Our Corresspondent gathered that similar training is simultaneously taking place in Edo, Delta, Sokoto, Katsina, Jigawa, Kwara and Cross Rivers states.
