The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development, FENRAD, has demanded that the Abia State Criminal Law Bill 2026 (H.A.B 1) and the related Abia State Administration of Criminal Justice Bill 2026 (H A.B 2) should go through public hearing and presented at town hall meetings, before being passed into law.
According to FENRAD, the legislative process is critical to allow for detailed examination, stakeholder input, and public participation before final passage into law.
The Executive Director of FENRAD, Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, who stated this in a press release, said the proposed bills had already passed the second reading in the House.
He said that the Bills have far-reaching implications for criminal justice administration, fundamental human rights, due process, and access to justice in Abia State.
FENRAD emphasized that any reform or enactment of criminal laws must comply with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
He particularly cited Section 36, which according to him, guarantees the right to fair hearing, Sections 34 and 35, which protect human dignity and personal liberty, and Section 17(2)(e), which mandates equality before the law.
He emphasized the need for speedy dispensation of justice, protection of the rights of suspects, defendants, and victims, reduction of undue delays and abuse of police powers, and promotion of transparency and accountability within the justice system.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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