The Nigerian criminal justice system has, for too long, operated without an adequate mechanism to prevent injustices arising from record-keeping deficiencies. Innocent individuals have been arrested, paraded, and even imprisoned for crimes they did not commit. This injustice thrives due to the lack of proper identification and record systems, which unscrupulous elements in law enforcement exploit for personal gain.
Innocent citizens are swapped for criminals, especially when offenders are wealthy or influential enough to buy their way out of justice.
Many of these individuals are unjustly punished due to a lack of accurate photographic and biometric records linking suspects to their alleged crimes.
Some victims of this system have spent decades in prison without compensation, while others have tragically lost their lives for crimes they never committed.
Imagine being falsely accused, your child, or loved one being used as a scapegoat for someone else’s crime. How would you feel knowing that the real culprit walks free because the system lacks basic mechanisms for accountability?
A mugshot is a photographic portrait of an individual taken after an arrest. Typically, it includes two views (front and side), along with additional identifying information such as height, name, and a unique booking ID. This photograph is linked to a database with other identifiers like fingerprints and records of tattoos.
Mugshots are essential because:
Identification: They provide a visual record that aids in identifying individuals accurately.
Prevention: The existence of a mugshot deters repeat offenses by increasing the likelihood of recognition and apprehension.
Transparency: They demonstrate law enforcement’s accountability and efforts to uphold justice.
The Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, highlights procedures for recording suspects’ details:
However, these provisions are often disregarded, leaving loopholes for corruption and abuse.
As Nigerians, we cannot wait for the government to act while injustice festers. If we don’t act, posterity will suffer the consequences. Here’s what we can do:
Conclusion
It’s time to break the cycle of injustice perpetuated by an outdated and corrupt system. Every Nigerian deserves a justice system that ensures fairness and protects innocent lives. By enforcing the proper use of mugshots and biometric records, we can strengthen accountability, deter crime, and protect the innocent.