Sokoto DPP calls for abolition of Nigeria’s prison calendar

The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) in Sokoto State, Aishatu Ahmad Kaoje, has called for the abolition of Nigeria’s current prison calendar system, arguing that it undermines the justice system.

Speaking at the CLEEN Foundation Town Hall Meeting on the Sustainable Implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) Regime in Nigeria, held at Pinnacle Hotel and Resort, Sokoto, Kaoje stressed that the existing system distorts sentencing outcomes.

She said, “In my view, the prison calendar does not add value to the justice system. Under the current arrangement, eight months is considered a year in prison rather than the standard twelve months, which affects sentencing weight and undermines justice.”

The town hall meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Nigeria Police Force, Ministry of Justice, ACJL Monitoring Committee, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Legal Aid Council, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), and the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA).

Discussions centred on the successes, challenges, and lessons learned in ACJL implementation, with participants emphasizing the need for government support.

They urged the Sokoto State Government to equip security agencies with modern tools to facilitate the smooth execution of ACJL provisions.

Responding to participants’ concerns, the State Chief Judge, Justice Saidu Sifawa, represented by Professor Justice Muawiya Dahiru Mahmud, clarified that ACJL serves as a procedural manual guiding prosecutors, lawyers, and judges in applying substantive laws effectively.

At the end of the three-day workshop, stakeholders outlined an action plan, which includes advocacy visits to the State Chief Judge, Attorney General, Judges, and Magistrates to enforce compliance with Sections 16(4) and 17(2) of the ACJL.

“Monthly visits to correctional facilities to monitor compliance with ACJL provisions. Lobbying the Sokoto State Government for budgetary allocations to support ACJL implementation.

“Engaging the State Commissioner of Police to ensure the quarterly submission of arrest reports to the Attorney General”.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening the ACJL framework and ensuring its seamless enforcement across Sokoto State.

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