Ajiran Murder Trial: Group Defends Calls for Independent Scrutiny, Rejects Claims of Media Interference

The Centre for Citizens Right Protection (CCRP) has defended its calls for an independent review of the investigation into the Ajiran murder case, insisting that demands for transparency and accountability should not be misconstrued as an attempt to interfere with judicial proceedings.

The group was reacting to a statement by the Coalition of Civil Rights Organisations for Good Governance, which backed the Nigeria Police Force's handling of the case and cautioned against what it described as media interference.

In a statement signed by its Convener, Abe Emmanuel Kolawole, the CCRP said it respects the constitutional right of individuals and organisations to express opinions on matters of public interest but rejected suggestions that those seeking greater scrutiny of the investigation were attempting to influence the courts.

According to the organisation, it has never advocated a media trial or encouraged the public to usurp the role of the judiciary.

"Our consistent position has been that allegations surrounding the investigation deserve independent scrutiny because justice must not only be done but must also be seen to have been done," the statement said.

The CCRP argued that demanding transparency, accountability and an impartial investigation does not amount to an attack on the Nigeria Police Force but is instead a constitutional right and a key component of democratic governance.

It also maintained that portraying legitimate public concerns as media interference ignores the role civil society has played in promoting reforms within Nigeria's criminal justice system.

The organisation stressed that while every suspect, including police officers, is entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court, citizens also have the right to seek accountability from public institutions and request independent reviews where necessary.

"It is therefore misleading to suggest that calls for an independent review of investigative procedures amount to an attempt to influence judicial proceedings," the statement added, noting that courts determine guilt or innocence based on evidence presented before them, while citizens are entitled to question whether investigations have been conducted fairly and transparently.

The CCRP further stated that its previous interventions had focused solely on strengthening public confidence in the outcome of the case through an impartial assessment of concerns surrounding the investigation, rather than prejudicing either the prosecution or the defence.

On the issue of leaked investigative materials, the organisation said it supports lawful efforts to determine how confidential documents entered the public domain but cautioned against allowing the controversy over the leaks to overshadow broader concerns about the investigation itself.

The group called on the Inspector-General of Police and relevant oversight institutions to demonstrate fairness, professionalism and institutional independence by addressing all concerns objectively and in accordance with the law.

Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional advocacy, the CCRP said it would continue to pursue justice through lawful and peaceful means while promoting a criminal justice system anchored on transparency, fairness and accountability.