Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, has suggested a transformative shift from written statements of evidence to video-recorded evidence in courts for criminal proceedings.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) highlighted the limitations of written statements, pointing out that they can be altered or denied, thereby complicating judicial processes.
He made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Delta State Police Commissioner, Abaniwonda Olufemi, in Asaba.
“Video Recorded evidence is not only more reliable but also easier to verify. Developed countries have embraced recorded evidence due to its credibility, and it is time for us to follow suit,” he asserted.
He emphasized the existence of the Delta State Administration of Criminal Justice Law mandating the use of technology in legal procedures, a move intended to enhance transparency and efficiency.
“As part of this technological integration, the state government plans to establish an interview room. The interview room will serve to protect both the police and the citizens,” he said.
The Attorney-General said that the visit was aimed at sharing the ministry’s vision for improving justice delivery in the state, explaining that this facility will ensure that interrogations are conducted in a secure and transparent environment, reducing the potential for misconduct.
Ohwovoriole also emphasized the need for legal backing to support police enforcement actions, reiterating that offenders should be prosecuted irrespective of how long it takes to complete the trial.
Responding, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olufemi Abaniwonda expressed gratitude for the Attorney-General’s visit, describing it as a positive development for law enforcement in the state.
He highlighted the issue of small arms proliferation, particularly in Warri and Ughelli axis of the state, as a significant concern.
“The rise in small arms poses a serious threat, and we need collective efforts to regulate their possession,” he stated.
The meeting between the Delta State Ministry of Justice and the police underscored a shared commitment to adopting modern practices to strengthen the legal system and ensure effective justice delivery.
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