LASG sensitize inmates on plea bargain protocol
Admin l Friday, August 16, 2019
LAGOS, Nigeria – Lagos State Ministry of Justice on Thursday began a 2-day sensitization program on the benefits of plea and sentence bargain for inmates in Ikoyi, Kirikiri (medium & maximum) Prisons in Lagos State
According to the Director of Public Prosecution, , Ms.Titilayo Shitta-bey, plea bargain is a criminal initiative that permits defendants to plead guilty and get a reduced charge for a more severe sentence.
Shitta-bey said section 75 and 76 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Lagos State (ACJL), 2015 grants inmates access to plea bargain.
The Director Public Prosecution who was represented a deputy director in the Directorate, Mrs. Oluwafemi Adenike further noted that the sections of the law helps defendants reduce time spent in custody while awaiting trial and also decongest the prisons.
Shitta-bey stated that Attorney-General of the State determines beneficiaries of plea bargain based on recommendations given by a Plea-Bargain Committee set up by the Directorate of Public Prosecution.
The Director urged the inmates to beware of fraudulent lawyers who demand for money before filing application for plea bargain on behalf of defendants. She said is free and accessible to all as contained in the Criminal Law.
While receiving the counsel at the Ikoyi prison, the Deputy controller of prison, Tolu Ogunsakin appreciated the Lagos State Government initiative towards decongesting the prisons and quickening the trial process for inmates with pending cases in Courts.
Ogunsakin urged govt to explore other ways of reducing congestion in Courts and Prisons through Parol System and Community Service Sentencing.
