The Oyo State House of Assembly has called for the establishment of Special Criminal Divisions within the State High Court to accelerate the trial of serious criminal cases and strengthen the administration of criminal justice.
The call followed a motion moved by the lawmaker representing Ibadan North-West State Constituency, Hon. (Dr.) Dawood Akanni Olalere, popularly known as D-Al-Ameen, before the House.
Presenting the motion, Olalere said effective criminal justice administration was critical to maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, preserving public confidence in the judiciary and ensuring effective enforcement of the law.
He noted that delays in the adjudication of criminal cases could undermine public confidence in the justice system, stressing that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.
While commending judicial officers in the state for their commitment, the lawmaker observed that the handling of both civil and criminal matters by the High Courts had contributed to congested dockets, frequent adjournments and prolonged criminal trials.
He argued that dedicated criminal divisions would facilitate the speedy prosecution of cases involving kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, murder, rape, cultism and other serious offences, while serving as a deterrent to criminality and reducing impunity.
The House subsequently urged the Chief Judge of Oyo State and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to take necessary steps towards establishing Special Criminal Divisions for the exclusive and speedy determination of serious criminal matters.
It also called on the Executive Arm of Government to provide adequate financial, technological and administrative support, including digital case-management systems, electronic recording facilities and sufficient judicial personnel.
The House further urged the government to strengthen witness-protection programmes, victim-support services and free legal aid for indigent defendants, while calling on the police, Department of State Services and other security agencies to expedite investigations and promptly transmit case files to the Ministry of Justice.
The Committee on Public Petitions, Justice and Judiciary, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary, was mandated to monitor implementation of the initiative and report progress to the House.
Olalere said the proposed Special Criminal Divisions would improve judicial efficiency, reduce delays in criminal trials, ease pressure on custodial centres and enhance public confidence in the administration of justice in Oyo State.
