The police and other law enforcement agencies have powers of arrest and detention ©

British Council/Nick Cavanagh

In Nigeria, the police and other law enforcement agencies are authorised to arrest and detain criminal suspects. These powers are regulated by law, but in some cases, agencies abuse their powers. 

The Administration of Criminal Justice legislation creates a scheme for the judicial oversight of detention. This involves magistrates and judges who are obligated to periodically inspect detention facilities to scrutinize records, ask questions, and ensure that detention practices comply with constitutional and international standards for the treatment of persons in custody. 

The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme worked with stakeholders to promote the implementation of these provisions. 

You can download the how to guide below. We hope you find it useful.