Abuja — Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Mr. J.B. Daudu has called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s correctional system, emphasizing the need for secure and functional facilities to maintain societal stability. He made the remarks at the 7th Annual Criminal Law Review Conference, where he also launched Volume 1 of his book, J.B. Daudu SAN through the Cases.
Dauda said the book reviews key cases and judgments he has argued in Nigeria’s superior courts since his call to the Bar. He stressed that society’s stability depends on properly managing individuals prone to disrupting public order.
“Correctional institutions are central to the smooth operation of any socio-economic and political system. Their current state requires massive public investment to ensure they fulfill their role,” he said.
He urged both federal and state governments to construct multi-purpose correctional centres—one per local government or three per state—following the 2022/2023 constitutional amendment placing prisons on the concurrent legislative list. According to Dauda, effective use of these centres could significantly reduce criminality nationwide.
Former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, SAN, reviewed the book, calling it “a timely and invaluable resource” for Nigeria’s legal community. He highlighted that the book provides insight into Dauda’s advocacy style, his strategic submissions, and instances where his arguments were later adopted by courts. Notable cases featured include Abdullahi Baba v. Nigerian Civil Aviation Training Centre (1991) and Abu Muhammad v. the State (1991).
“I recommend this publication to researchers, policymakers, and all who care about justice administration in Nigeria,” Adoke said.
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