Nigeria and its criminal justice system

Publication date: July 2, 2024

Number of pages: 115–116 pages

Publisher: Independently published

Language: English

ISBN-13: 979-8329973600

Author: Dele Farotimi

Nigeria and it’s criminal justice by Dele Farotimi is an overview of the Nigerian dilapidated judicial system which no longer gives hope to the common man rather has turned to armed weapon in the hands of few powerful elites against the people Dele’s latest work exposes the rotten, seedy underbelly of Nigeria’s justice system; unmasking persons and authorities complicit in the crimes of corruption, unfettered greed and gross violation of the basic principles of equity that have conspired to ruin it.

The book offers a critique of the Nigerian judiciary system, delving into its historical roots, systemic corruption, and the socio-political implications for Nigeria the book is classified into thirteen chapters. Below is a chapter-by-chapter summary.

Chapter 1:

Speaks about A Broken System. It introduces the reader to Nigeria’s criminal justice system, describing it as inherently flawed and dysfunctional. He highlights the disconnection between justice as an ideal and its practical application in Nigeria, it provides a historical overview of the system, tracing its colonial roots and how it was designed to serve colonial interests rather than justice. Here are a few Key Takeaways. Nigeria’s justice system was not built to serve the common man but to protect the powerful.

Chapter 2:

Speaks about Colonial Legacy and Structural Deficiencies. It delves deeper into the colonial foundations of Nigeria’s legal and justice systems. The book argues that the system was designed to maintain control rather than promote fairness or equity.

He examines how these colonial structures persist today, with laws and institutions that often work against the marginalised. Here are few Key Takeaways. A justice system rooted in colonialism perpetuates inequality and oppression.

Chapter 3:

The Role of Corruption. The book identifies corruption as a significant impediment to justice in Nigeria. From the police to the judiciary, he outlines how bribery, favoritism, and political interference undermine the delivery of justice. He shares real-life cases to illustrate the systemic corruption that plagues the system. Key Takeaway. Corruption at every level of the criminal justice system erodes public trust and hinders justice.

Chapter 4:

The Police, Enforcers or Oppressors? The chapter critiques the Nigerian police force, highlighting its inefficiency, lack of training, and susceptibility to corruption. It discusses the culture of brutality and extortion, emphasizing how the police often victimise citizens they are meant to protect. Key Takeaway. A dysfunctional police force exacerbates the challenges within the criminal justice system.

Chapter 5:

The Judiciary, A Compromised Arbiter. The book examines the Nigerian judiciary, focusing on its independence, or lack thereof, inefficiencies, and susceptibility to external pressures.

He discusses how judicial processes are often delayed or manipulated, leaving many without timely or fair resolutions. Key Takeaway. Judicial independence and efficiency are critical for a functioning justice system, yet both are lacking in Nigeria

Chapter 6:

Prisons, Punishment Rehabilitation. In this chapter, he explores Nigeria’s prison system, describing it as overcrowded, underfunded, and punitive rather than rehabilitative. He highlights the plight of awaiting trial inmates, many of whom languish in prison for years without a court hearing.

Key Takeaway. Nigeria’s prisons fail to rehabilitate offenders, perpetuating cycles of crime and injustice

Chapter 7:

The Plight of the Marginalised

This chapter discusses how the poor and marginalised suffer the most under the current system. He explains how wealth and influence can buy justice, while the less privileged are left to face the full brunt of the system’s inadequacies. Key Takeaway. The Nigerian justice system disproportionately targets and penalizes the poor

Chapter 8:

Political Interference and the Elite’s Influence. This chapter highlights how political and elite interests undermine the criminal justice system. The author provides examples of how politicians and influential individuals manipulate legal processes to evade accountability. Key Takeaway. Political Interference Compromises the Integrity of Nigeria’s Criminal Justice System.

Chapter 9:

Human Rights Violations. He addresses widespread human rights abuses in Nigeria, including unlawful arrests, extrajudicial killings, and police brutality. He critiques the lack of accountability for these violations and the culture of impunity that allows them to persist.

Key Takeaway. Protecting human rights is fundamental, yet the Nigerian system consistently fails to do so

Chapter 10:

Activism and the Fight for Justice. The chapter discusses the role of civil society, activists, and legal reformers in challenging the injustices within the system. e y highlights the importance of grassroots movements and public awareness in driving change.

Key Takeaway. Citizen activism and public accountability are critical to reforming the system.

Chapter 11:

The Role of International Influence. The author examines how international organizations and foreign governments influence Nigeria’s justice system. He critiques their limited understanding of local realities and their often-superficial engagement with reform.

Key Takeaway. International interventions must align with local contexts to be effective.

Chapter 12:

Steps Toward Reform. This chapter provides actionable solutions for improving Nigeria’s criminal justice system. He advocates for systemic reforms, including increased funding for the judiciary, police reform, prison decongestion, and better training for law enforcement. Key Takeaway. Comprehensive reform is necessary to address systemic issues and ensure justice.

Chapter 13

A Vision for Justice. In the final chapter

Farotimi outlines his vision for a fair, efficient, and people-centered justice system. He emphasizes the need for leadership, accountability, and a collective commitment to change.

Key Takeaway. Transforming Nigeria’s criminal justice system requires collective effort and visionary leadership.

Conclusion

Nigeria and its criminal justice system by Dele Farotimi is both a critique and a call to action. The book exposes the systemic flaws within Nigeria’s justice system and emphasizes the urgent need for reform. By addressing corruption, political interference, and human rights abuses, Farotimi offers a roadmap for creating a system that serves all Nigerians equitably.