By Victory Chukwuka
The criminal justice system in Nigeria is often hindered by inefficiencies, corruption, and a lack of transparency. The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun was represented at an event, saying that Nigeria’s criminal justice system is “weak, sick and needs overhaul.”
However, the power of data-driven technology offers the promise of reforming the system, making it more accountable, efficient, and accessible. Here are some ways Technology can improve the criminal justice system.
- Case Management And Speeding Up Court Proceedings:
The slow pace of legal proceedings is a significant challenge within the Nigerian criminal justice system. This sluggishness often leads to prolonged pretrial detentions, contributing to severe prison overcrowding. As of 3rd March, 2025, 67% of Nigerian inmates are awaiting trial, highlighting the systemic delays in adjudication. However, with the merging of digital records and case management systems, most of this inefficiency can be addressed. By using technology to record case files, schedules, and court proceedings, the system becomes far more organized. Judges, lawyers, and clerks can access real-time updates, which can significantly reduce the time spent on each case, making the entire process faster and more transparent
- Data Improves Decision-Making:
Through the use of advanced analytics, the justice system can identify patterns in legal decisions, sentencing trends, and the occurrence of injustices such as wrongful convictions. By utilizing this data, stakeholders can better understand systemic problems and address them strategically. Technology like artificial intelligence (AI) can also assist in making more equitable legal decisions by highlighting inconsistencies or biases in judgments, helping to promote fairness.
- Enhanced Access To Justice In Remote Areas:
Many citizens, especially those in rural areas, struggle to access legal services due to regional, financial, or educational barriers. However, digital platforms can provide online legal services and offer legal resources to underserved populations. Data can be used to outline regions with the highest needs, allowing legal aid organizations to allocate resources more efficiently and effectively. Online systems can also help simplify the process of filing complaints and seeking legal advice, making it easier for Nigerians to claim their rights.
- Data Collection Can Serve As A Powerful Tool For Accountability:
Transparency and public trust are critical for a functioning justice system, and technology can ensure that the actions of the judiciary are publicly available for review, Digital platforms can make court rulings and case information publicly accessible, ensuring that justice is not only done but is seen to be done. Public supervision can hold authorities accountable for their actions, reducing corruption and promoting trust among citizens.
I have come to appreciate that the real power of data lies not just in collecting information, but in using it strategically to foster positive change. By utilizing technology and data, Nigeria’s justice system can become more effective, accessible, and fair. It is clear that data-driven reforms offer a path toward a more equitable and transparent legal system, where every citizen’s rights are respected, and justice is truly served.