22/02/2026
PUBLIC COMPLAINTS COMMISSION SEEKS COLLABORATION WITH MINISTRY OF JUSTICE TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO JUSTICE, DECONGEST PRISONS AND TO AMEND ITS CURRENT ACT.
The Honourable Chief Commissioner of the Public Complaints Commission (PCC), Honourable Bashir Abubakar, MFR, has called for a stronger institutional collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice in order to strengthen administrative justice, decongest correctional centres and as it prepares to amend its current act.
Abubakar made the call on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), at the Ministry's headquarters in Abuja.
According to the Chief Commissioner, the Commission complements the formal judicial system by addressing administrative injustices before they escalate into protracted litigation, thereby easing the burden on courts already grappling with heavy dockets and inherited backlogs.
Bashir Abubakar informed the Minister specifically that since assuming duty in September, 2024, the Commission had received a total number of 714,648 complaints, while 658,670 complaints were timely and successfully resolved attributing this excellent feat to the new policy, strategic operational reforms and restructuring of the Commission's online and other publicity drive by his watchful leadership in line with the renewed hope agenda of Mr President geared towards the overall interest of the Nigerian public.
Similarly, the Honourable Chief Commissioner further commended the reform-driven leadership of the Attorney-General in sustaining justice delivery despite systemic challenges, noting that, early dispute resolution strengthens public confidence in government at both national and international levels.
Abubakar identified congestion in correctional facilities as a major concern.
Stressing that, "Persistent congestion is largely attributable to trial delays, over-reliance on custodial sentences for minor offences, and limited application of non-custodial measures. Many individuals detained for minor, non-violent matters remain in prolonged remand".
In a bid to resolve the prevailing problems as it relates to justice administration in the country, the Nigerian Chief Ombudsman pledged that "the Commission, through its investigative mandate, stands ready to collaborate with justice sector actors to promote alternatives such as mediation, restorative justice, and community-based sanctions—thereby contributing to decongestion and overall justice system optimization" ,he reaffirmed.
Speaking further on the importance of the collaboration between the Commission and the Ministry of Justice, the Chief Commissioner said "it is not merely procedural; it is foundational to the equitable administration of justice in Nigeria.
"We look forward to deepening collaboration, strengthening systemic responses, and jointly advancing administrative justice for the benefit of all Nigerians", he emphasised.
Responding, the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice congratulated the Chief Commissioner on his achievements since assumption of office and acknowledged the constitutional recognition and importance of the Commission.
According to the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, "The PCC occupies a very key constitutional position and serves as an important institution that checks public institutions while partnering with justice and anti-corruption agencies", the Minister asserted.
Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, later emphasised that both institutions share a lot in common, especially regarding anti-corruption efforts, the rule of law, and the enforcement of rights. He also underscored the importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in the administration of justice.
The Minister assured the delegation of the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate in advancing justice sector reforms, including possible review of relevant legal frameworks, and pledged continued institutional support, he concluded.
