The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Akure branch, has raised serious concerns about Nigeria's correctional system, describing it as fundamentally flawed and in urgent need of comprehensive reform.
Flawed Prison System Requires Immediate Overhaul
During its recent law week held at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome) in Akure, Ondo State capital, the legal association revealed that Nigeria continues to operate a punitive prison system rather than a genuine correctional framework. The current system has failed to adequately rehabilitate and reintegrate former inmates, creating what the association termed a vicious cycle of re-offending.
The NBA Akure branch emphasized the critical need for full implementation of the Correctional Service Act of 2019, which was designed to transform the country's approach to incarceration and rehabilitation. The association also advocated for the establishment of a dedicated department specifically responsible for overseeing correctional reforms.
Justice Access Crisis in Rural Areas
The legal body expressed deep concern about the significant challenges facing residents in rural areas of Ondo State in accessing justice. This situation is compounded by broader systemic issues affecting the entire judicial system.
The association highlighted that the executive arm of government routinely withholds approved budgets for the judiciary, creating severe operational shortfalls that undermine the independence of the judicial branch. This practice weakens judicial independence and exposes judges to political pressure and undue influence.
Financial Autonomy Essential for Judicial Independence
In a startling revelation, the NBA Akure branch disclosed that over 70 percent of funds approved for the judiciary are either withheld or released selectively. The association described this trend as completely unacceptable in a democratic society.
The lawyers have therefore demanded the full implementation of Section 121(3)(c) of the Nigerian Constitution to guarantee financial autonomy for the judiciary. They stressed that true judicial independence is impossible without the judiciary having control over its own finances.
The communiqué issued at the end of the law week on November 17, 2025, represents a strong call to action for both state and federal authorities to address these critical issues affecting Nigeria's justice system.
