The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has urgently called for reforms within Nigeria’s justice system, emphasizing that the system is not functioning at its full potential. Speaking at the 2024 Annual Lecture and Award Ceremony organized by the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), Egbetokun stressed that the problems within the justice system are not solely the responsibility of the police, as they are just one part of the broader framework that needs substantial revitalization. He urged a collaborative effort from all stakeholders to improve the system's overall performance, stating that the justice system's well-being would positively impact all Nigerians.
Represented by Force Headquarters Spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP acknowledged the challenges currently facing the Nigerian police force but reassured the public of their commitment to providing better service to the nation. In his remarks, Egbetokun noted, “The police are not the only pillar or stakeholder in the criminal justice system in this country. We have challenges, we accept, but we will try our best to make sure we have a better system.” He emphasized that collaboration among all stakeholders is necessary to perfect the criminal justice and judicial system in Nigeria. Egbetokun concluded, “If this system is working well, it is going to affect you, and it is going to affect us.”
Also at the event, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, joined in discussing the pervasive issue of corruption in Nigeria. Aliyu stated that corruption continues to be a significant problem affecting all sectors of the nation. He argued that the fight against corruption requires the collective effort of all stakeholders, highlighting that Nigerian institutions across the board are undermined by corruption, which hinders efficient service delivery. Aliyu lamented that corruption impacts policy decision-making, resource mobilization, and the execution of government policies. He shared that, through their experience at the ICPC, a multifaceted approach to fighting corruption had proven effective. This approach includes a focus on enforcement, prevention, deterrence, and reforming systems.
Aliyu also emphasized that corruption remains especially entrenched within Nigeria’s judicial system. He pointed out the prevalence of bribery, influence peddling, and other attitudinal challenges within the sector, which undermine its effectiveness. He further explained that the justice sector is a primary focus of concern, particularly regarding bribery involving justice sector stakeholders. Aliyu stressed that, despite limited public contact, judicial officials exhibit a relatively high rate of bribery. As a result, he called for targeted anti-corruption measures to address these issues within the judicial system. Dr. Aliyu concluded by reiterating that tackling corruption within Nigeria’s justice sector remains an urgent and crucial task for the future. Daily Trust reported his statement.
