EFCC, NJI Seek Legal Reforms to Tackle Delay in Trial of Corruption Cases
Alex Enumah in Abuja The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the National Judicial Institute, (NJI) have called for legal and procedural reforms that will eradicate delays and abuse
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Judicial Institute (NJI) have advocated for legal and procedural reforms to address delays and abuses in the trial of corruption and other financial crimes cases. This call was made at the conclusion of the 8th Capacity Building Workshop for Justices and Judges, held in Abuja from October 13-15, 2026. The workshop, organized by the EFCC in collaboration with the NJI, gathered judges, justices, investigators, and prosecutors from across Nigeria.
Key resolutions from the workshop include designating specialized judges and staff to handle corruption cases, equipping these individuals with necessary training to ensure consistent application of laws, and balancing fairness, efficiency, and legal certainty. Participants also recommended reviewing certain provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) and enhancing investigation standards, including digital protocols.
They emphasized the importance of adopting a coordinated approach for obtaining confessions, ensuring the use of video recording and other measures to safeguard suspects' rights and investigation integrity.
The NJI and EFCC suggested instituting a more inclusive approach for obtaining confessional statements, utilizing video recording and other necessary measures to protect suspects' rights and investigation integrity. They also stressed the need for procedural reforms to extend the time for freezing suspected proceeds of financial crimes.
The workshop recommended that ministries, departments, and agencies involved in anti-corruption efforts, in conjunction with the National Assembly and the Judiciary, should develop governance protocols and policy guidelines for the adoption and deployment of Artificial Intelligence in the justice system.
Participants called for greater investment in digital forensic laboratories, technology infrastructure, and specialized training for investigators, prosecutors, and judges to keep pace with evolving economic and financial crimes and global best practices. They urged the NJI, working with the National Judicial Council (NJC), to develop accredited certification courses for judges and relevant stakeholders to enhance their efficiency in justice delivery.
Finally, the workshop urged all stakeholders to maintain synergy and coordination in the administration of criminal justice, particularly in sharing information on emerging trends in investigating and prosecuting financial crimes in the digital age.
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