The Chief Judge of Delta State, Hon. Justice Theresa Diai has directed Magistrates to hear and conclude custody cases within six months of arraignment..
In this context, custody matters refers to cases where suspects have been arraigned and subsequently produced from custodial facilities to face court trial.
This directive is contained a circular seen by TheLoyal Nigerian Lawyer correspondent. The document reads:
HEARING AND CONCLUSION OF CUSTODY CASES WITHIN SIX MONTHS
I am directed by His Lordship, The Hon. the Chief Judge to refer to the above subject matter and remind Your Worships, that custody matters should be concluded within six months from the date of arraignment.
I am further directed to state that in the event that such trials exceed the stipulated six months duration, a report to that effect should be forwarded to the Administrative Judge of the Judicial Division within your respective districts for further directives.
Accept the assurances and warm regards of The Honourable, the Chief Judge, please.
ELOHO OKODIYA ONORIOSE (MRS.)
Chief Registrar
