ADMINISTRATION OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE IN NIGERIA: PERCEPTIONS OF THE ROLE OF POLICE AND THE PUBLIC IN CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION IN LAI IA, NASARAWA STATE.

This study examined administration of criminal justice in Nigeria: perception of the role of Police and public in criminal investigation in Lafia, Nasarawa state. The main objective of this study is to examine the role of police criminal investigation in the administration of criminal justice in Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study are to: Determine the role of police criminal investigation in the administration of criminal justice in Nasarawa State; Examine the relationship between police criminal investigation and crime reporting; Examine challenges confronting police criminal investigation in Nasarawa State; Investigate how police investigation can be improved in the administration of the criminal justice system. Make recommendations on how to facilitate effective and efficient criminal justice administration in Nigeria. Survey design was used and a sample size of 211 respondents was selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Primary data generated through questionnaires were analyzed quantitatively by the use of simple percentages, tables, and multiple correlation statistical technique was employed to test the hypotheses. Structuredinterviews were also conducted. An Investigative Intelligence and Control model was developed and adopted. From the analysis of data generated for the study, the following are major findings: Lack of hardware equipment and scientific techniques. Also, the study discovered that there is a poor public-police relationship. Unfortunately, this has greatly affected the smooth and successful investigation by the police. The study found that there is no police welfare and consequently, little or no motivation among the police. The combination of the above mentioned lead to low performances of police criminal investigation. This negates the sole duty of investigation and by implication, translates into weakening the future for criminal justice. Consequently, this leads to future cycles of injustice and increases in crime. The study recommends adequate funding of police for effective service delivery in the area of crime investigation and crime management. Effort must be made to ensure that the welfare of police officers is improved to spur them to duty. There should be a synergy between the public and the police in terms of crime reporting and investigation. In conclusion, adequate provision of hardware equipment and qualified personnel is necessary for prompt criminal investigation in ensuring effective crime prevention and crime management.