The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has trained personnel of its Cross River State Command on criminal justice administration and human rights compliance to improve investigations and ensure lawful enforcement.

The two-day training, held at the command headquarters in Calabar, was facilitated by the Corps’ Director of Legal Services, Aminu Kayode Alilu.

Alilu trained officers on the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and other legal frameworks governing law enforcement, with emphasis on investigations, lawful arrests, handling of suspects and prosecution.

He warned that violations of due process during arrests, interrogations and detention could undermine prosecutions, expose the Corps to litigation and infringe on citizens’ fundamental rights.

“Effective security operations must be conducted within the confines of the law. Professionalism, accountability and respect for human dignity are non-negotiable,” he said.

The training brought together area commanders, divisional officers, intelligence and investigation personnel, legal officers, station officers, cell guards and tactical commanders, among others.

The Cross River State Commandant, Okarazu Chima, thanked the Commandant-General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for prioritising legal capacity development.

Chima described the training as timely and urged participants to apply the knowledge gained in their duties. He warned that the command would not tolerate avoidable legal errors that could lead to litigation or violations of citizens’ rights.

The workshop featured interactive sessions and practical case studies on legal challenges encountered during field operations.