Legal Nigeria

‘Overhaul criminal justice system’

Some Lagos-based lawyers yesterday called for a reform of the justice system and the provisions of its laws.They told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the legal system had been mired by challenges ranging from applicable laws to their implementation.The lawyers held that a review was imminent and called for an overhaul of the legal system.A constitutional lawyer, Mr. Spurgeon Ataene, described the judiciary as embattled, citing the invasion of the homes of some judicial officers.“The arraignment of some judges is indeed a sad commentary for the judiciary. The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) should evolve and articulate policies that will fortify the judicial arm of the government,” he said.Ataene called for an interface with the arms of government, in order to avoid conflict.“It is important for the CJN to interface with the executive and legislative arms of government in finding effective ways of resolving conflicts, rather than exposing the judiciary to needless public ridicule.“More so, it is important for judges to deliver on their mandates, and endeavour to reduce the burden of justice on the citizens and not being overbearing,” he said.Ataene called on the CJN to restore the past glory of the judiciary.