Law enforcement agencies and state prosecutors from the Ministry of Justice have been urged to unite in addressing challenges affecting the integrity of officials.
The goal is to find lasting solutions that restore public confidence and deliver justice to the people they serve.
This call was made by Justice Cecilia Mojisola Olatoregun, Chairman of the Lagos State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, during her keynote address at the Lagos State Strategic Management Meeting with MDAs and stakeholders focused on justice delivery in Lagos.
Justice Olatoregun spoke on the topic “Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice: Enhancing Coordination Between Law Enforcement Agencies and the Ministry of Justice, Particularly in Criminal Prosecution and Anti-Corruption Efforts.”
She noted that while many government agencies are responsible for addressing criminal incidents in Lagos, crime still remains prevalent.
She emphasized that corruption significantly hampers the dispensation of justice, stating, “Corruption, particularly financial crime often regarded as white-collar crime is extremely dangerous to the fabric of society, despite its often understated perception.”
Justice Olatoregun highlighted various issues, such as instances of building collapses despite claims of having necessary structural permits, allegations of budget padding, and the diversion of public funds into personal coffers.
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To combat these issues, she stressed the importance of stronger regulatory oversight and transparency. Regular audits of public projects, stricter enforcement of building codes, and real-time monitoring of fund allocations are essential to curb corruption and prevent negligence.
“Our criminal justice system is a reflection of our society’s commitment to fairness, equity, and accountability,” she explained. “If we get it right, we can ensure that lawbreakers are held accountable, victims receive justice, and public trust in our institutions is restored.”
In concluding her remarks, she urged a commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation within the criminal justice system.
By working together, law enforcement agencies and the Ministry of Justice can create a synergy that delivers timely and effective justice while upholding the rule of law for all Nigerians.
Justice Olatoregun also identified challenges faced by law enforcement agencies and Ministry of Justice officials during prosecution.
These include fragmentation and duplication of efforts, inadequate training of stakeholders, insufficient resources, inaccessibility to technology, and the organizational structure of law enforcement agencies.
To achieve synergy and collaboration in criminal prosecution and anti-corruption efforts, she suggested several methods, including: adopting an integrated approach from investigation to prosecution, enhancing capacity building and training, ensuring accountability for outcomes, improving investigation infrastructure, embracing digitalization and technology, and working to restore public confidence.
