The Anambra State Government has introduced a plea bargain policy for eligible criminal suspects as part of measures to accelerate the dispensation of justice and reduce delays in the prosecution of criminal cases across the state.
The policy, however, excludes suspects facing charges such as murder, rape, armed robbery and kidnapping, who will continue to undergo full prosecution in accordance with the law.
In a statement, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN), said the initiative is in line with Section 156 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Anambra State, 2022, and is aimed at strengthening the state’s criminal justice system.
According to him, defendants facing trial for eligible offences will now be issued a Plea Bargain Form by the prosecuting counsel or officer and informed of their right to opt for a plea bargain.
He explained that completed forms would be forwarded to the Ministry of Justice for consideration, warning that any criminal charge filed without complying with the new directive could be regarded as being contrary to government policy and may be discontinued.
Mr. Nweke further directed that every plea bargain agreement must form part of the prosecution process and be endorsed by the head of the legal department of the prosecuting agency or the Attorney-General where the matter is handled by the Ministry of Justice.
The Attorney-General said the initiative forms part of the judicial reform agenda of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration, which is focused on improving the efficiency of the justice system and ensuring the timely dispensation of justice.
He noted that the policy reflects the governor’s commitment to working with the legislature and the judiciary to strengthen judicial processes and provide faster access to justice for the people of Anambra State.
