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The Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, has set out the Ministry of Justice’s strategic priorities for the year, with strong emphasis on digital transformation, effective prosecution, and strengthened legal frameworks, at the Ministry’s first management meeting of the year.
The meeting, held at the Ministry’s headquarters, brought together directors and senior management staff to review the Ministry’s mandate and align departmental activities with government policy objectives aimed at improving efficiency, accountability, and service delivery within the justice sector.
Addressing the gathering, the Attorney-General reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to technology-driven reforms to enhance justice administration.
He disclosed that the Ministry is advancing the deployment of a Criminal Information System to centralise criminal records, prosecution data, and case histories. He also announced ongoing work on a comprehensive Case Management System designed to improve case tracking, minimise delays, and support evidence-based decision-making.
The Attorney-General further stated that virtual court hearings have become a permanent feature of the justice system, noting that their expansion would improve access to justice, reduce congestion in courts, and ensure more efficient utilisation of time and resources in line with global best practices.
On security-related prosecutions, the Attorney-General placed particular emphasis on the establishment of an Anti-Drug Unit in the state to support law enforcement agencies in combating drug-related offences. He directed that cases handled by the unit must be accorded priority attention and prosecuted with professionalism, given the serious social and security implications of drug abuse and trafficking.
He also disclosed that the Delta State Government has amended the Anti-Cult Law to strengthen its effectiveness and ensure more robust enforcement.
According to him, the amendment is intended to address evolving patterns of cult-related activities and enhance the capacity of prosecutors to secure successful outcomes. He charged legal officers to familiarise themselves with the amended law and ensure its diligent and consistent application.
Ohwovoriole reiterated the Ministry’s zero-tolerance stance on child trafficking, sexual Offences and related offences, describing the protection of children as a fundamental responsibility of the government. He urged legal officers to pursue such cases diligently and to work closely with relevant agencies to ensure justice for victims.
On appellate litigation, the Commissioner stressed that appeals must be treated with utmost seriousness, particularly in cases expected to be resolved in favour of the state. He directed management to strengthen internal review processes, improve legal strategies, and ensure timely and thorough preparation in all appeal matters to safeguard government interests and uphold the integrity of the justice system.
The Attorney-General also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to staff recognition and welfare, noting that dedication, excellence, and outstanding performance would be recognised and rewarded. He added that continuous capacity building and improved welfare are essential to sustaining morale and enhancing productivity.
In their responses, members of the management team expressed support for the reform agenda and pledged their commitment to its effective implementation.
The meeting concluded with a call for discipline, accountability, and results-oriented leadership as the Ministry of Justice commences the year’s activities with renewed focus on digital innovation, effective prosecution, and the protection of the public interest.
