JDPC, Stakeholders Urge Greater Support for Non-Custodial Justice Reforms in Edo

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The Justice Development and Peace Caritas Initiative (JDPC), based, Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State, has highlighted public misconceptions as a key reason for the limited use of non-custodial measures within the state's justice system.

Speaking in Benin City at an engagement and learning session on the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) in Edo State, JDPC Executive Director Rev. Fr. Fidelis Arhedo stressed the potential of non-custodial legal reforms to transform justice delivery in Nigeria, especially in enhancing the rights of suspects and defendants.

The session was themed: "Enhancing fairness, efficiency in Edo State Criminal Justice System." 

Rev. Arhedo outlined aspects of the non-custodial framework, including plea bargaining, suspended sentencing, and parole, as mechanisms aimed at reducing court backlogs and speeding up legal processes. He noted, however, that these measures—such as suspended sentencing and other non-custodial options, which could relieve overcrowding in correctional centers—remain underutilized due to limited public awareness.

“Parole, which allows offenders to reintegrate into society under supervision, remains underused due to inadequate infrastructure and public knowledge,” he added.

Justice G. E. Adekanmbi, in her keynote address, identified funding as a significant obstacle to the full implementation of the ACJL. Her address focused on the theme, “Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL): Overview of Provisions, Key Objectives, Plea Bargaining, Suspended Sentences, Parole, Non-Custodial Sentencing, and Stakeholders’ Roles.”

Dr. Festus Alenkhe, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Edo State Council, represented by NUJ Secretary Andy Egbon, affirmed the ACJL’s importance in safeguarding citizens' rights and promoting fair legal processes. Egbon added that increased public awareness could reduce delays, ensure timely justice, and build trust in Edo State’s justice institutions.

In her goodwill message, Mrs. Esosa Osula, Secretary of the Justice Development and Peace Monitoring Committee, expressed optimism that sustained efforts would bring about significant progress in justice reform.

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