Nigeria’s judicial system faces significant challenges in implementing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and Administration of Criminal Justice Laws (2011 and 2015). Despite these progressive laws designed to expedite trials, reduce case backlogs, and protect defendants’ rights, compliance remains inconsistent across courts. Judicial officers, court staff, and legal practitioners often operate without adequate oversight, leading to delays, procedural violations, and diminished public confidence in the justice system.

The Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative (PWAN) is addressing these challenges through systematic court observation, bringing transparency, accountability, and citizen participation to judicial processes across FCT, Lagos, and Ondo States.

 What We Did

Through this comprehensive three-year project, PWAN implemented a systematic approach to monitor judicial compliance through:

Court Observation Infrastructure

– Deployed 70-80 trained court observers (lawyers and non-lawyers) across three states

– Monitored 65 courtrooms simultaneously (FCT – 20, Lagos – 25, Ondo – 20)

– Established weekly reporting systems with monthly summaries to Chief Judges

– Created quarterly data analysis protocols for trend identification

Stakeholder Engagement and Capacity Building

– Convened methodology workshops with 15 judicial reform experts from Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Nigerian Institute for Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), FIDA, CLEEN Foundation, and LEDAP

– Conducted intensive two-day training programs for court observers on ACJA/Law provisions

– Organized thematic convenings with Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committees

– Engaged Chief Judges of FCT, Lagos, and Ondo States for institutional buy-in

Data Collection and Analysis

– Implemented systematic observation of corruption and non-corruption cases

– Administered court user satisfaction surveys to assess public perception

– Generated bi-annual policy briefs for state and national policymakers

– Developed quarterly reports tracking compliance patterns and trends

Public Engagement and Advocacy

– Partnered with radio and television stations including Human Rights Radio for findings dissemination

– Utilized social media platforms for continuous public education

– Organized public releases of findings with media organizations and justice stakeholders.

 Our Impact

Through our systematic observation and constructive engagement, this project creates sustainable pressure for judicial reform while building institutional capacity for ongoing accountability. Our combination of citizen participation, data-driven advocacy, and stakeholder engagement establishes a model for judicial sector transparency that can be replicated across Nigeria’s 36 states.

By monitoring judicial compliance and fostering dialogue between courts, legal practitioners, and civil society, we advance Nigeria’s journey toward a more transparent, accountable, and effective justice system that serves all citizens fairly and efficiently.