Taraba judiciary adopts new criminal justice practice direction for 2025
The Taraba State Judiciary has formally adopted the Administration of Criminal Justice Law Practice Direction No. 1 of 2025, aimed at modernizing the state’s legal system and enhancing access to justice.
The development was announced on Wednesday during a one-day validation meeting held in Jalingo, the state capital
The event was organized in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, NIALS, which is providing technical support for the initiative.
Chief Judge of the State, Justice Joel Agya, described the adoption of the new practice direction as a major step towards creating an efficient, fair, and law-abiding criminal justice system.
“This initiative marks a shift toward a more modern legal framework in Taraba. It reflects our commitment to justice reform, upholding citizens’ rights, and promoting accountability,” Agya said.
Justice Agya emphasized that the new direction not only strengthens the state’s legal processes but also positions Taraba as a model for other jurisdictions seeking to reform their criminal justice systems.
He commended NIALS for its unwavering dedication to advancing legal scholarship and institutions in Nigeria.
“Your legacy continues to enrich our justice system and strengthen the rule of law. We are especially eager to partner on digital transformation initiatives that leverage technology to improve efficiency and transparency in the legal sector,” he told NIALS officials.
Speaking Director-General of NIALS, Professor Abdulqudri Abikan, said the institute’s role in the project was to provide technical guidance for the implementation of the new legal framework. He noted that similar exercises have been carried out in 20 other states across the country.
Abikan revealed that 200 copies of the adopted document will be printed and distributed to courts across Taraba to aid in implementation.
He added that the project is being supported by the MacArthur Foundation as part of broader efforts to modernize Nigeria’s justice system.
“I am particularly encouraged by the leadership shown by the Chief Judge of Taraba, who personally participated in this process,” Abikan stated.
Taraba judiciary adopts new criminal justice practice direction for 2025
