ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State has once again emerged as the best-performing state in Nigeria in the implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), solidifying its position as a leader in legal reforms.
Speaking at the official handover of the award in Asaba, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, dedicated the achievement to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the dedicated officers in the Ministry of Justice. He commended the governor for his unwavering support, which has enabled Delta State to maintain its dominance in criminal justice administration.
“Our efforts align with the M.O.R.E Agenda of Governor Oborevwori’s administration. Delta State was adjudged the best due to our reforms, including swift legal advice on criminal matters,” Ohwovoriole stated.
He highlighted the state’s efficiency in delivering legal advice, noting that, on average, cases are processed within six days. He also emphasized measures to balance justice, ensuring that guilty individuals face trial while innocent persons are not wrongfully prosecuted.
Further underscoring the state’s commitment to modernization, Ohwovoriole revealed that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) has been fully digitized, facilitating accurate biometric record-keeping of criminal cases and convictions. He described the initiative as a deterrent mechanism to track and distinguish between first-time and repeat offenders.
Another milestone, he said, is the implementation of virtual hearings within correctional facilities to reduce costs and security risks associated with transporting suspects to court.
“With the governor’s approval, we are setting up virtual courtrooms in Ogwashi-Uku and Okere Correctional Centres, allowing judges to conduct proceedings remotely from Asaba,” he said. “This innovation will enhance speed and efficiency in case management.”
Additionally, the Attorney-General announced that all state laws have been made accessible online for a nominal fee, promoting legal awareness and transparency.
Executive Secretary of the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) in Delta State, Mr. Patrick Osisioma, explained that Delta emerged as the overall winner at the 2025 National Technical Review and Evaluation Conference (NTREC) on ACJA implementation, held in Abuja.
According to Osisioma, Delta secured the top position with 90.9%, ahead of Rivers (85%), Nasarawa (82%), Abia (78.5%), Ekiti (76%), and Bayelsa (67.8%). He noted that this marks the second time Delta is winning the award, having first claimed the title in 2021.
The state received a Certificate of Excellence signed by Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN, President of the Centre for Social-Legal Studies (CSLS), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice and ACJMC, alongside a plaque, a laptop, and a work station.
With this latest recognition, Delta State continues to set the benchmark for criminal justice reforms in Nigeria, reinforcing its commitment to efficiency, fairness, and technological advancement in legal administration.
