Published by Stone Reporters News | www.stonereportersnews.com | August 6, 2025
Benin City, Edo State — The Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie, has reaffirmed the critical role of Police Duty Solicitors in upholding human rights and ensuring access to justice for suspects in police custody.
Speaking at the opening of a two-day capacity-building programme and onboarding session for Police Duty Solicitors under the Police Duty Solicitors Scheme (PDSS), held at Golden Tulip Hotel, GRA, Benin City, Dr. Osagie highlighted the importance of diligence, courage, and strength of character for legal officers engaged in frontline justice delivery.
> “The Police Duty Solicitors Scheme plays a vital role in preventing prolonged detention and ensuring fair hearing for all. It is a human rights intervention mechanism that guarantees immediate access to legal representation,” Dr. Osagie stated.
He praised the collaborative efforts of the Edo State Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC), the Federal ACJMC, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in driving reforms within the state’s criminal justice system.
Emphasizing the strategic position of duty solicitors, Dr. Osagie described them as the first line of defense in the criminal justice process and urged them to discharge their responsibilities with professionalism and unwavering commitment to justice. He assured participants of the State Government’s full support in strengthening and sustaining the scheme.
> “As Chief Law Officer of Edo State, I pledge our commitment to deepen the Scheme and provide all necessary support to ensure effective service delivery,” he added.
Stakeholders Commend PDSS Initiative
The event was graced by key stakeholders, including:
Hon. Justice Daniel Okungbowa, Chief Judge of Edo State
CP Monday Agbonika, Commissioner of Police, Edo State
Representatives from the UNDP, Federal and State ACJMCs
Officials from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch
Other justice sector actors and civil society representatives
Goodwill messages emphasized the significance of early legal intervention in promoting justice and protecting the rights of detainees.
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Reported by Stone Reporters News Desk
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