Senior Lawyer Trains Police In Diligent Investigation, Prosecution

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr Hussaini Zakariya, has trained police personnel of the Kebbi State Command on investigation and diligent prosecution in Nigeria’s criminal justice system.

Zakariya, of the Law Savannah Chambers, Birnin Kebbi, conducted the training yesterday in Birnin Kebbi.

He said the Police Act, 2020, and the Kebbi State Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL), 2020, underscored the importance of lawful and professional conduct in all criminal investigation and prosecution stages.

He warned that failure to adhere to due process often leads to wrongful arrests, failed prosecutions, violation of fundamental rights and erosion of public confidence in the justice system.

“The foundation of a successful criminal justice system in Nigeria is a careful investigation and assiduous prosecution. A well-executed investigation prevents miscarriage of justice by ensuring that facts are collected accurately, evidence is reliable, and suspects are appropriately identified.

“Similarly, diligent prosecution guarantees that cases are handled fairly and professionally in accordance with due process.

“Together, these processes uphold the rule of law, promote accountability, and enhance public trust in the justice system,” Zakariya said.

The SAN advocated for continuous reforms and stronger collaboration among the police, the Ministry of Justice, and the judiciary to improve criminal justice delivery in the country.

He emphasised that with proper training and supervision, police investigators and prosecutors can play a stronger role in ensuring justice, peace, and order in society.

“Only when investigations uncover the truth and prosecutions enforce the law fairly can Nigeria’s criminal justice system deliver on its promise of fairness, deterrence, and protection for citizens,” he added.

Zakariya announced that his chamber would sponsor any police officer in Kebbi State who wishes to study law at the Federal University, Birnin Kebbi, starting from the next academic session to the Nigerian Law School.

The chamber organised the training, which drew trainees from police prosecutors, detectives, and other personnel of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Birnin Kebbi.

It was organised in honour of the retiring deputy commissioner of police (DCP) in charge of SCID, Mr Ishaq Salihu Ismail, and focused on improving professionalism in investigation and prosecution.

In his response, Ismail commended Zakariya for his sustained contributions to advancing the state’s NPF and supporting capacity development within the force.