Authorities in Taraba State have undertaken a custodial visit as part of measures to fast-track judicial processes and reduce congestion in correctional facilities.
The exercise, covered by Arise News, involved the review of 10 inmate cases. Following the assessment, some matters were returned to the appropriate courts for further proceedings, in line with procedural requirements. The intervention forms part of a broader judicial strategy aimed at addressing prolonged remand periods and improving the pace of case resolution.
Speaking during the visit, Justice Joel Angia outlined steps the judiciary intends to strengthen in order to improve efficiency within the system. “The judiciary of Taraba state remains committed to strengthening case management, encouraging the use of non-custodial measures where appropriate and ensuring that magistrate courts and area courts diligently review remand cases in line with the law,” he said.
The review exposed recurring structural concerns within the justice framework, including slow investigations, delayed prosecutions and limited access to legal representation for detainees. Observers note that such factors continue to contribute significantly to overcrowding across custodial centres.
Officials involved in the initiative explained that the exercise seeks to balance two priorities: safeguarding the rights of defendants and easing operational pressure on correctional institutions. By scrutinising individual files and identifying cases suitable for alternative measures, the judiciary aims to ensure that detention is not prolonged beyond what the law permits.
The Nigerian Correctional Service also reaffirmed its support for judicial oversight. “The Nigerian Correctional Service remain fully committed to supporting the courts in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities. We shall continue to provide accurate inmate records, facilitate court sitting within custodial centers where necessary and deepen inter agency collaboration with the judiciary. The ministry of justice, the legal aid council and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that justice is not only on but seen,” a representative stated.
Beyond case reviews, the Taraba State judiciary is advocating the wider application of non-custodial sentencing, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and plea bargaining, particularly in minor or non-violent offences. Legal authorities argue that such approaches, where properly applied, can reduce pre-trial detention and limit the strain on custodial infrastructure.