The popular phrase, “charge my matter to court”, is increasingly being blamed for delays in the administration of criminal justice in Nigeria, with legal experts warning that the misuse of criminal prosecution for civil and petty disputes is destroying the system.
As of July 19, 2026, data from the Nigerian Correctional Service shows that over 70% of inmates nationwide are awaiting trial. Stakeholders say a significant number of these cases originated from complaints that should have been resolved through mediation, civil suits, or alternative dispute resolution, rather than criminal charges.
Lawyers and Magistrates say the trend involves complainants rushing to Police stations to “charge” neighbours, business partners, tenants, and family members over debt, land disputes, breach of contract, and insults. Instead of pursuing civil remedies, many insist on criminal prosecution as a tool for intimidation and quick settlement.
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria said, “The ‘charge my matter to court’ mentality has turned the Police and courts into debt recovery and conflict resolution centers. It is clogging the system and keeping innocent people in custody for months over matters that are not criminal.”
The effect is severe. Courts are overwhelmed with cases that lack criminal elements. Investigating Police Officers spend time on matters that should be in civil courts. This leads to frequent adjournments, case file delays, and prolonged detention of accused persons who are often granted bail only after spending weeks in custody.
Human rights organizations say the practice also contributes to prison congestion. Many awaiting trial inmates are in custody for bailable offenses such as “conduct likely to cause breach of peace,” “criminal intimidation,” or “obtaining by trick” — charges often arising from personal disputes.
The Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 encourages diversion and plea bargaining to reduce the burden on courts. However, experts say complainants who insist on “charging to court” frustrate these provisions. They demand prosecution, and Police, fearing accusations of compromise, proceed with charges.
The Nigerian Bar Association has called for public enlightenment to educate citizens on the difference between criminal and civil matters. The NBA President stated, “Not every disagreement is a crime. When we criminalize everything, we destroy justice for real victims and collapse the system for everyone.”
Legal aid groups are urging the Police and the Ministry of Justice to screen complaints properly and refer civil matters to the appropriate channels. They also recommend stronger use of Citizens Mediation Centers in Lagos and similar bodies in other states to handle disputes before they enter the criminal justice system.
Until the “charge my matter to court” culture is addressed, experts say delays will persist, prisons will remain congested, and genuine criminal cases will continue to suffer from slow prosecution.
