Legal Experts Call For Abolition Of Death Penalty In Nigeria
Legal experts are advocating for the end of the death penalty in Nigeria, arguing that its use fails to promote justice or enhance public safety. These views were shared during a virtual dialogue organized by The Inclusion Project (TIP) to mark World Day Against the Death Penalty, under the theme “Abolition Wave in Africa: Challenging Misconceptions and Lessons for Nigeria.”
Moderated by TIP’s Director, Pamela Okoroigwe, the event gathered experts from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and Sierra Leone to discuss misconceptions about capital punishment. Okoroigwe highlighted that Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation, remains one of the 14 African countries retaining the death penalty. She emphasized the need for education and reform, referencing TIP research showing that over 60% of Nigerians oppose the death penalty.
Speakers from Sierra Leone and Ghana shared insights into how abolition was achieved in their countries, with former Amnesty International Board member, Professor Vincent Adzahlie-Mensah, noting that Ghana’s crime rate remained unchanged following abolition. He stressed that countries retaining the death penalty often see higher crime rates, pointing to the lack of deterrence.
Experts also addressed the injustice the death penalty brings to marginalized groups, with many lacking adequate legal representation. Collins Okeke, a Nigerian legal expert, argued that Nigeria’s criminal justice system should prioritize rigorous investigations and effective crime prevention strategies over capital punishment.
Speakers from Kenya echoed these sentiments, highlighting ongoing abolition efforts. Gatambia Ndungu, a Makwanyane Fellowship member, criticized the death penalty’s role, advocating for a justice system that employs advanced, effective crime reduction methods.
