Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has said the government has a huge role to play in the speedy administration of justice.
Governor Wike said this while handing over operational vehicles to the outgoing State Comptroller of the Nigeria Correctional Centre, Olumide Tuloye.
The Governor who said the Judiciary alone should not be held accountable for the administration of justice, therefore, warned that the vehicles are provided to aid the operations of the Nigeria Correctional Service in the state.
According to him; “The courts, lawyers, judges, magistrates and the Nigeria Correctional Service all have their roles to play in the dispensation of justice.
“When people talk about decongesting the prisons, they blame it only on the courts. But speedy dispensation of justice and trial of criminal cases can be delayed by the Correctional Service.
“When they cannot bring an accused person or inmate to court, cases will be adjourned.
“So, the government must play its role to make sure that facilities or infrastructure are provided to aid the dispensation of justice.
“That is why we are doing what we are doing to support the quick dispensation of justice in this state. This will enable them to effectively perform their duty without excuses.
“This is part of our policy to partner agencies of the Federal Government in order to have the best for the people of Rivers State.
“We have supported all the security agencies including the paramilitary organisations. It is our duty that those who are serving here should render services to benefit the state.”
The outgoing Comptroller of the Nigeria Correctional Centre, Olumide Tuloye in his response commended Governor Wike for his gesture, assuring that the vehicles will be put into good use to ease transportation of inmates in the state.
