Human rights layers under the auspices of Progressive Lawyers Forum, Rivers State Chapter, has blamed the unlawful detention of suspects in prison custody to the lapses caused by state directors of public prosecution.
The State Chairman of the Forum, Barr. Eugene Odey wondered why directors of public prosecution are finding it difficult to give their legal recommendations in a matter before the court without exceeding the legally stipulated period.
Odey said, “cases sent to DPPs for legal advice have been delayed beyond the stipulated periods and as a result, a lot of suspects have suffered prolonged detention in prison custody. If the responsibility of their office is the cause, they should voice out for something to be done about it.”
The state chairman of the Forum also urged magistrates to take advantage of some provisions in the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and do the needful whenever DPPs delay hinder trials.
