The National Legal Adviser of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Abdulkarim Kana, has attributed the ineffective implementation of Nigerian laws to systemic corruption.
Prof Kana stated this on Thursday while delivering the 52nd Inaugural Lecture of the Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK).
Delivering the lecture on the topic: “Why laws fail: Analysing the shortcomings of Nigerian laws and the implications for justice”.
The professor of law said corruption is deeply ingrained in Nigeria’s political and judicial systems, therefore, hindering the effective application of laws.
“Consequently resources intended for the police and the judicial processes are often diverted, while legal personnel can engage in practices contrary to ethics which compromises the integrity of legal results,” he said.
He suggested that institutional strengthening is vital to overcoming political patronage and corruption which are plaguing the Nigerian judiciary and law enforcement agencies thereby leading to failure of Nigerian laws.
“An independent judiciary free from political influence is crucial for upholding justice. This can be achieved by implementing robust mechanisms for the appointment and removal of judges, supported by by performance evaluations and transparent criteria.
“Furthermore, investments in judicial training and capacity building are essential to equip legal practitioners with the necessary skills to navigate complex contemporary legal issues, thereby enhancing the overall integrity of the legal system,” he said.
Kana admitted that promoting transparency within the Nigerian legal system is imperative for restoring public trust and the establishment of independent anti corruption bodies that monitor judicial proceedings and law enforcement actions can deter misconduct and foster a culture of accountability.
He further pointed out that legal reforms must prioritise the allocation of resources to the judiciary, including adequate salaries for judges and legal personnel, improved infrastructure and technology integration within court systems.
“This would not only reduce susceptibility to corruption but also enhance the efficiency and credibility of legal proceedings,” he said.
Kana then called on the government to adopt a proactive stance regarding the application of existing laws by careful allocation of adequate resources and a determined struggle against graft in the legal system.
In her remarks, Prof Sa’adatu Liman, Vice Chancellor of NSUK, described the lecture topic as particularly relevant, highlighting the challenges and shortcomings of the Nigerian legal system.
“It is essential that we critically examine our laws, identify areas of improvement, and work towards creating a more just and equitable society,” she said.
The Voice reports that Prof Kana is a renowned Professor of Law. He served as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Nasarawa State for three terms and was recently appointed as the National Legal Adviser of the APC, to bring his expertise and experience to bear on the party’s leadership.
