Public Complaints Commission and the Challenges of Administration of Justice in Nigeria: Awka, Anambra State Experience

Abstract

The establishment of the Public Complaint Commission system was intended to fulfil its designated duties, but the interference in the operations and activities of the Public Complaint Commission in Nigeria, particularly the Awka chapter, indicates that it is not fully carrying out its responsibilities, as it has gradually come under the influence of the government. However, researchers from allied literatures have analysed the formations, functions, and shortcomings of the Public Complaint Commission system in Nigeria using theoretical frameworks. There has been a lack of empirical examination of the Ombudsman's operations, particularly in relation to administrative unfairness in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria. The research investigated the role of the public complaints commission in resolving the issues of administering justice in Nigeria, specifically focussing on the experience in Awka, Anambra State. The study formulated four research questions and accompanying goals, while using the Structural Functionalism theory as a guiding framework. The researcher used secondary sources for data collecting, including textbooks, journals, and periodicals. The study's findings indicate that the Public Complaint Commission functions as a means of seeking redress against arbitrary government or administrative measures. However, the effectiveness of the commission relies on the public's complete awareness of its free and expedient services. The research suggested, among other things, that there should be sufficient promotion and public awareness campaign on the activities, powers, and jurisdiction of the commission. This would help ensure that the public is informed of the existence of the Public Complaint Commission and its operational scope.