Abuja: Anambra State Government has announced a new plea bargain initiative for suspects standing criminal trial in the state, specifically excluding those charged with murder, kidnapping, armed robbery, and rape.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN), disclosed in a statement that this initiative is part of the state government’s efforts to decongest correctional centres and courts. This move aligns with the vision of Governor Chukwuma Soludo and aims to advance ongoing reforms in the criminal justice sector.
Mr. Nweke explained that the plea bargain arrangement would apply to all offences created under the laws of Anambra State, with the exception of murder, kidnapping, armed robbery, and rape. A formal directive has been issued to all prosecutors in the state, mandating them to provide the prescribed plea bargain forms to defendants in criminal cases before a plea is taken.
The attorney-general highlighted that this initiative is a significant policy measure aimed at improving the efficiency of criminal justice administration in the state. It marks the first time a state government has extended the plea bargain option on such a broad scale to individuals facing criminal prosecution. Under the plea bargain arrangement, a defendant who voluntarily pleads guilty to an offence may receive a lesser sentence as determined by the court.