Journalists decry recycling of criminals in Nigeria

Journalists under the aegis of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) have expressed concerns over the recycling of criminals in Nigeria.

The President of CRAN, Olalekan Olabulo, while welcoming guests to the 2024 Annual Lecture and Award Ceremony of CRAN, also called for a review of the justice system in the country.

The CRAN president said, “In the past, we have focused on the roles of security agencies in addressing these challenges, but this year, we are taking a bold step further by examining the crucial role of the justice system administration in the fight against insecurity.

“There is no denying the fact that the pursuit of justice and security is a shared responsibility that demands collective effort and collaboration.”

He added, “As journalists who have worked closely with security agencies in Nigeria, the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria has identified recidivism as a major threat to the fight against insecurity.

“Recidivism, a hydra-headed monster, has become a significant source of concern for security agents in Nigeria.

“The fact that criminals and convicts are recycled, returning to a life of crime after being arrested and prosecuted, is a stark reminder of a failing system.

“This has not only emboldened criminals but also discouraged security operatives, exposing them to grave dangers from unrepentant criminals. Many security agents have paid the ultimate price, killed, and injured others after being identified by criminals who found their early release from correctional centres.

“These criminals mobilised and attacked security operatives, who unknowingly found themselves in the midst of the criminal fray.”

The CRAN president also stated that “the scourge of recidivism has become a cancer, eating deep into the fabric of our society. It’s a ticking time bomb, waiting to unleash its deadly consequences on our collective security.

“Despite the discouragement, our security agents remain resolute, committed to their duties, and deserving of our commendation.

“As we gather today to discuss this critical issue, I strongly believe that our resource persons will do justice to our topic.

“They will not only provide insightful analysis but also come up with practicable solutions on how our security agents and the administrators of our justice system can work effectively to tackle insecurity and end recidivism.

“It’s a clarion call to action, a summons to our collective conscience to rise up and address this challenge.

“The time for rhetoric is over; it’s time for action. We need to support our security agents and provide them with the necessary resources and protection to do their jobs effectively.”

He emphasised that “we also need to reform our justice system, make it more responsive to the needs of our society, and ensure that criminals are held accountable for their actions.

“The era of recycling criminals must end; it’s time to put an end to recidivism.”

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