Anambra State Government has announced a plea bargain programme for suspects standing criminal trial in the state, excluding those facing charges of murder, kidnapping, armed robbery and rape.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN), disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Awka.
Nweke said the initiative forms part of the state government’s efforts to decongest correctional centres and reduce the burden on the courts, while advancing ongoing reforms in the criminal justice system in line with the administration of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo.
ALSO READ: UNICEF urges traditional leaders to report disease outbreaks early
According to him, the programme applies to all offences created under the laws of Anambra State, except murder, kidnapping, armed robbery and rape.
The Attorney General said he has issued a directive to all state prosecutors to provide the prescribed plea bargain forms to defendants in criminal cases before their pleas are taken in court.
He noted that the directive, dated July 22, 2026, is intended to ensure eligible defendants are informed of the opportunity to consider a plea bargain at the early stage of criminal proceedings.
Nweke described the initiative as a significant step in the state’s justice sector reforms, saying it is designed to promote efficient case management while easing congestion in correctional facilities.
Under the plea bargain arrangement, an accused person who voluntarily pleads guilty may receive a reduced sentence, subject to the approval of the court.
The state government said the measure reflects its commitment to improving the administration of criminal justice while maintaining a firm stance against serious violent offences.