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Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015

The Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015 was enacted to harmonize and streamline the criminal justice processes in the Federal Republic of Nigeria by integrating the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act and the Criminal Procedure Code. The Act aims to promote efficient management of criminal justice institutions, protect the rights and interests of defendants and victims, and ensure the speedy dispensation of justice.

The ACJA introduces several progressive reforms, including mandatory remand reviews, plea bargaining, witness protection measures, time-bound trials, and the prohibition of unnecessary arrests and delays. It also codifies judicial safeguards to ensure fair hearing, non-discrimination, and humane treatment of suspects and convicts in line with constitutional and international human rights standards.

This legislation is indispensable for judges, prosecutors, defence counsel, law enforcement agencies, human rights advocates, correctional authorities, and stakeholders engaged in the administration, reform, and oversight of criminal justice in Nigeria.