Criminality and the Judiciary In This 21st Century: An Appraisal

Abstract

The rise of crime in this 21st century is quite alarming, there are diverse forms of violent acts perpetuated in Nigeria by sects otherwise known as terrorists, militants, insurgents, bandits, kidnappers and the likes, also electoral and domestic violence are not left out. These notorious and unlawful violent practices/crimes in the communities have resulted in an unending security threats to human lives and property. Thus, the judiciary is seen as the last hope of the masses in their continual efforts to enforce the laws meant to deter people from committing crimes and punishing those found guilty of crime. This work which focused particularly in Nigeria appraised the roles of the judiciary in tackling the increasing rate of criminality and violence in this 21st century. It is however recommended that the judiciary (members of the Bar and Bench) should play their respective roles diligently in order to ensure that there is a fall in or reduction of crimes and violence in this 21st Century and thus make the society a safer place to live in. Also, the Law Enforcement Agencies especially the Police should also brace up in combating these violent acts against the lives and properties of people.