Reps demand speedy prosecution of homicide, femicide cases

The house of representatives has asked law enforcement agencies to prioritise the prosecution of femicide and homicide cases in the country.

The lower legislative chamber passed the resolution on Tuesday following the adoption of a motion co-sponsored by four lawmakers — Awaji-Inombek Abiante, Amobi Ogah, James Faleke, and Soro Mansur.

A recent report by the Salama Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) indicated that a woman is sexually assaulted or killed every 10 minutes in Nigeria.

Moving the motion, Abiante, the lead sponsor, said
homicide is on the rise across the country, while femicide has become a “significant concern” with several cases recorded in recent years.

Highlighting several homicide cases, Abiante lamented the delays in the prosecution and trial, saying prolonged detention of suspects has resulted in overcrowding at correctional facilities, and loss of crucial evidence, eroding public faith in the judicial system.

“The slow and ineffective justice system allows perpetrators to gain media attention while trials for serious crimes like homicide are prolonged, an example is the case of Chidinma Ojukwu, under trial for the murder of Usifo Ataga, continues to gain publicity, and the notorious kidnapper Evans, facing murder trial, has been awarded a scholarship,” he said.

He said there is a need to establish special divisions within existing courts with exclusive jurisdiction over homicide and related cases to expedite justice, reduce backlogs and restore public confidence in the legal system.

The legislator called for public awareness campaigns focused on instilling ethical values and respect for human life.

Contributing to the debate, Billy Osawaru from Edo state attributed the rise in femicide and homicide cases to “sluggish investigations and prosecutions”.

Yusuf Gagdi from Plateau state urged religious leaders to refrain from preaching hate, division, or religious superiority.

Bamidele Salam from Osun state emphasised the need for “thorough” security screening in the hospitality industry, noting that many femicide cases occur in hotels.

Lawmakers voted in support of the motion when it was put to a voice vote by Tajudeen Abbas, the speaker of the house.