The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in Bauchi State has disclosed that approximately 600 out of 900 inmates in the state's correctional facilities are still awaiting trial for various offences, representing about two-thirds of the prison population.

This revelation was made by Assistant Superintendent Ahmed Tata, spokesperson for the NCoS in Bauchi, during a one-day workshop focused on the implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) and the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) held on Tuesday in Bauchi.

According to Tata, prison overcrowding in the state is primarily attributed to delays within the justice system. He emphasized that many individuals are being detained without trial, and proper application of the ACJL could significantly alleviate this issue.

"The law already exists, but suspects without judgments are just kept in prison," Tata stated. "If the law is used well, it will reduce overcrowding. Right now, almost 600 out of 900 inmates are still awaiting trial."

Chief Magistrate Sefiya Musa, who also spoke at the event, described the training as timely. She expressed surprise upon learning that Bauchi ranks 28th nationwide in justice delivery, while Nasarawa ranks third.

"We thought we were doing fine, but these facts are a wake-up call," she remarked. "Although the MacArthur Foundation has supported efforts in this area, we need to do more and work together."

The workshop, organized by the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS), brought together participants from the judiciary, Ministry of Justice, security agencies, and other stakeholders. Sharon Jibaniya, representing CSLS Executive Director Professor Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN), noted that similar workshops were being conducted in other states to improve the application of the law.

Professor Akinseye-George called on the Bauchi State Government to increase support for the judiciary, warning that without urgent intervention, the state could fall further behind in delivering justice.

The high number of awaiting-trial inmates highlights significant challenges in Nigeria's criminal justice system, particularly regarding case processing times and access to legal representation for defendants.

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