Delays in the Nigerian Criminal Justice System: Causes and Consequences

Amakiri; Chizike; Manuchim Favour Chichezum

doi:10.56201/ijssmr.vol.11no6.2025.pg351.359

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Delays in the Nigerian Criminal Justice System: Causes and Consequences

Amakiri, Chizike, Manuchim Favour Chichezum

Abstract

Delays in the Nigerian criminal justice system remain one of the most pressing challenges undermining the rule of law, public trust, and effective dispensation of justice. This paper examines the multifaceted causes of these delays, including systemic inefficiencies within the machinery of criminal justice, poor case flow management, inadequate courtroom infrastructure, and insufficient welfare of judicial personnel. Additional factors such as prosecutorial inefficiencies, delays in legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, prolonged investigations by security agencies, and the bail admission process are critically analyzed. The study also explores how legal practitioners, judges, and court supporting staff contribute, often inadvertently, to the protraction of trials. The consequences of these delays are far-reaching ranging from congestion in correctional facilities and violation of suspects' rights, to public disillusionment, erosion of judicial credibility, and impediments to economic and social development. Using empirical data, case studies, and statutory review, the paper underscores the urgent need for structural reform, better resource allocation, and institutional accountability in Nigeria’s criminal justice process. The findings contribute to scholarly and policy discourse by highlighting not just the depth of systemic breakdowns, but also offering pragmatic recommendations for sustainable reform.

Keywords

Criminal justiceNigeriacase delayjudicial reformsystemic inefficiency

References

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Delays in the Nigerian Criminal Justice System: Causes and Consequences

Abstract

Keywords

References

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