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NHRC, NGO Calls for Abolition of Death Penalty for Female
NHRC, NGO Calls for Abolition of Death Penalty for Female
By: Michael Mike
Hope Behind Bars Africa, in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), has called for the abolition of death penalty for the female in the country.
The call was made during a validation meeting on research findings organized by Hope Behind Bars Africa in collaboration with the NHRC.
The Executive Director of Hope Behind Bars Africa, Funke Adeoye, called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s criminal justice system and stronger protection for women facing the death penalty, describing capital punishment as “the most irreversible form of human rights violation.”
Adeoye made the call in Abuja during an event commemorating the World Day Against the Death Penalty, organised in partnership with the NHRC, the Legal Aid Council, and the Nigerian Correctional Service, with support from the Australian High Commission, the Embassy of Belgium, and the French Embassy.
She commended the NHRC for its consistent collaboration over the years, noting that the Commission has remained a steadfast ally in advancing the rights of vulnerable individuals across the country.
Reflecting on her organisation’s work, Adeoye explained that Hope Behind Bars Africa has spent the past seven years tackling systemic injustices within Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
“As an organisation, we have focused on ensuring access to justice for the most vulnerable. We have supported the reduction of pretrial detainees, advocated for fair trials, and provided legal aid to indigent inmates. But among all forms of human rights violations, the death penalty stands out because it is permanent. If an innocent person is imprisoned, there’s always a chance to correct that wrong. But once someone is executed, that mistake can never be undone,” she said.
She revealed that her organisation, with support from the World Coalition Against the Death Penalty, recently conducted research into the experiences of women on death row across Nigeria, uncovering deep-rooted gender discrimination within the justice system.
The research was led by Ms. Ogechi Ogu and Professor Ibrahim Bello ,conducted in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission, and supported by the French Development Agency, exposes how women on death row face compounded injustices rooted in gender discrimination, poverty, and weak access to justice.
“Our findings show that women in the criminal justice system face intersecting forms of discrimination. Because there are fewer women in detention, their needs are often ignored. The system is patriarchal by design ,it was not built with women in mind and that means their cases, their mental health, and even their rehabilitation receive little attention,” she said.
According to the study, Nigeria’s plural legal system comprising statutory, customary, and Sharia laws creates inconsistencies in justice delivery, particularly for women. Although they constitute a minority of death row inmates, their experiences reveal systemic inequalities in investigation, trial, and sentencing.
The study, which surveyed 60 women on death row across 10 states, found that 47 percent were aged 18–35, while over one-third had no formal education. Most were mothers and primary caregivers, meaning their incarceration causes severe family and social disruption.
Many worked in low-income, informal jobs such as trading, catering, or farming before imprisonment, reflecting their economic vulnerability.
Structural factors like gender-based violence, forced marriage, and economic dependency were found to heavily influence the women’s pathways to crime and conviction. Over a third had experienced domestic abuse or coercion, and in some cases, their offences were directly linked to self-defence or abuse-related trauma.
Within the justice system, 75 percent of the women did not understand the laws under which they were charged, 85 percent felt the law was unfair to women, and more than half described their trials as non-transparent. A significant number noted that the male-dominated judicial structure negatively affected their cases.
The report also highlighted the severe stigma and abandonment faced by women after conviction, especially in cases involving adultery or domestic disputes.
Many inmates’ children suffered disrupted education, unstable care, and psychological trauma as a result of their mothers’ incarceration.
Most women viewed the death penalty as unfair and ineffective, with over 80 percent preferring rehabilitation-based alternatives such as imprisonment with vocational training and psychosocial support.
Adeoye disclosed that when the group wrote to the Nigerian Correctional Service seeking approval to carry out the study, records showed about 85 women on death row nationwide. The goal, she said, was to document their experiences and gather evidence to inform justice reforms.
Turning to recent developments, Adeoye applauded President Bola Tinubu’s decision to grant pardons to some death row inmates, calling it a step in the right direction and also acknowledging that for over nine years Nigeria has not executed prisoners sentenced to death.
“We are grateful to the President for exercising his constitutional powers under Section 175 to grant pardons. But we must also be honest: issues of power and privilege often shape who gets mercy. Take the case of Miriam Sander she had good lawyers and a story that made headlines. Many of the women we work with don’t have that luxury. Some never met their lawyers before trial, and others were represented by under-resourced legal aid officers who simply couldn’t manage capital cases. These women are the forgotten ones,” she said.
Adeoye concluded by reaffirming Hope Behind Bars Africa’s commitment to continue advocating for fairer trials, humane treatment, and reform within Nigeria’s justice system.
“Today’s event is not just about marking the World Day Against the Death Penalty. It is a reminder that justice must serve everyone equally, not only those with power or visibility. We want this research and our advocacy to spark a movement that restores dignity and hope to people who have been written off by society. Our goal is simple: a justice system that values life, fairness, and redemption,” she said.
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN), represented by Harry Obe, emphasized that the death penalty has failed to deliver justice or deter crime.
He aligned with the global theme for the year, “The Death Penalty Protects No One,” to stress that executions do not make societies safer, nor do they address the root causes of criminal behavior.
“Evidence from around the world, and indeed from our own context here in Nigeria, shows that the death penalty does not truly protect anyone. It has not significantly deterred crime and often fails to address the underlying causes of violence and insecurity. Justice should be restorative rather than retributive, and the protection of human dignity must be central to our legal and penal systems,” he said.
Dr. Ojukwu stressed the NHRC’s firm position that justice must aim to rehabilitate rather than destroy lives.
The NHRC expressed worry about the growing trend of new laws proposing capital punishment for certain offences, calling such moves “counterproductive” and contrary to current global human rights conversations.
“In our monthly Human Rights Situation Dashboard, we raised concerns over the resurgence of capital punishment in proposed legislations. These include the Edo State Secret Cult Law 2025 and the NAFDAC Bill prescribing the death penalty for the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit medicines. While these measures may appear politically expedient, they are ultimately counterproductive and risk diverting attention from the structural reforms our justice system truly needs,” he noted.
He urged policymakers to focus on preventive justice, social reform, and accountability instead of relying on punitive laws that perpetuate violence.
Dr. Ojukwu acknowledged Nigeria’s informal moratorium on executions over the last decade, describing it as an encouraging step toward the eventual abolition of the death penalty.
“It is noteworthy that Nigeria has observed a de facto moratorium on executions for over ten years. Despite the continued issuance of death sentences, no executions have been carried out during this period. This restraint, though informal, reflects a growing recognition of the need for more humane and effective approaches to justice delivery in Nigeria,” he remarked.
He encouraged the government to formalize this moratorium and take steps toward abolishing the death penalty in line with international human rights standards.
A major highlight of the meeting was the validation of the research on gender and the death penalty in Nigeria, which revealed how women, especially those from marginalized communities, face compounded discrimination in the justice process from investigation to sentencing.
“This research brings to light the unique experiences and vulnerabilities faced by women and gender minorities within our criminal justice system. It shows that women, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, suffer compounded injustices from biased investigations to inadequate legal representation and sentencing disparities that often go unnoticed,” he explained.
He commended Hope Behind Bars Africa and its partners for their commitment to uncovering these realities and promoting gender-sensitive justice.
“Today’s gathering allows us to validate this important study, strengthen its recommendations, and advance advocacy for a justice system that upholds human rights for all. Let us remember that the death penalty does not protect society
it silences voices and undermines the very justice it claims to serve,” he said.
NHRC, NGO Calls for Abolition of Death Penalty for Female
Gunmen kill police inspector, two others in Nassarawa, cart away rifle
By: Zagazola Makama
Gunmen have killed a police inspector and two civilians during an attack on a patrol team in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, the police have confirmed.
Zagazola gathered that the incident occurred on Dec. 14, 2025, at about 6:30 p.m. along Ajimaka Village road en route to Rukubi town.
According to the sources, the patrol team, attached to Operation Restore Peace and led by Inspector Jampi Mbursa, was ambushed by a group of unidentified gunmen while on routine patrol alongside vigilante members.
“The assailants shot Inspector Jampi Mbursa, as well as two other persons identified as Julius Igbogh and Raphaeal Julius, all from Ajimaka Village,” the sources said.
The attackers reportedly carted away the inspector’s AK-47 rifle containing 30 rounds of live ammunition before fleeing the scene.
The victims were rushed to Rukubi General Hospital, where they were confirmed dead by medical personnel. Their remains have been deposited at the hospital’s mortuary.
The police said efforts were ongoing to recover the stolen firearm and arrest those responsible for the attack.
End
News
President Tinubu: We’re Mobilising All Military Assets To Protect Nigerians, Crush Security Threats
President Tinubu: We’re Mobilising All Military Assets To Protect Nigerians, Crush Security Threats
** Procures mine-resistant vehicles, new armoured fleet for armed forces modernisation
** Charges troops on discipline, professionalism, adherence to constitutional order
By: Our Reporter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated his administration’s firm resolve to mobilise all military and law enforcement assets to crush security threats and protect the lives all citizens of Nigeria.
Accordingly, he announced the procurement of mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles and a new armoured fleet for the military, as well as the refurbishment of over 100 Armoured Fighting Vehicles for return to active service.
President Tinubu disclosed this in Ojuelegba, Lagos State, on Monday when he declared open the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025.
Speaking at Nebo Hall, Abalti Barracks, venue of the conference, the President who was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, reaffirmed that security remains a central pillar of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“There is no nation that can achieve greatness without security. This government remains resolute in mobilising all military and law enforcement assets to eliminate security threats and protect the lives and property of all Nigerians,” he said.
The Nigerian leader noted that his administration is firmly committed to the modernisation of the Armed Forces through improved training, modern equipment and enhanced operational capacity.
He said beyond the recent induction of helicopters into Nigerian Army Aviation and the training of pilots, the government has advanced the procurement of additional Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, Armoured Vehicles and Patrol Vehicles to boost troop protection and battlefield effectiveness.
His words: “Following the induction of helicopters into Nigerian Army Aviation and the training of pilots, we have advanced the procurement of additional Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, Armoured Vehicles, and Patrol Vehicles.
“We have also refurbished over one hundred Armoured Fighting Vehicles, now returned to active service. These efforts reflect our clear commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Army’s operational readiness.”
He added that the Federal Government is deepening partnerships with friendly nations to promote research, innovation and indigenous defence production, with the long-term goal of achieving self-reliance in defence and security.
Commending the Nigerian Army for what he described as impressive gains in the fight against terrorism and other security challenges, President Tinubu said reports from various theatres of operation point to improved outcomes driven by professionalism, courage and effective joint operations with sister services and security agencies.
“The positive reports emerging from the various theatres of operation are encouraging and stand as testimony to your resilience and professionalism,” he said.
The President assured the military of the government’s unwavering support in fulfilling its constitutional mandate of safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity, noting that security is one of the eight priority areas of his administration.
He also stressed the importance of discipline, professionalism and adherence to constitutional order, describing the apolitical posture of the Armed Forces as critical to sustaining public trust.
President Tinubu further praised the Nigerian Army’s civil-military cooperation initiatives across the country, noting that security efforts must also focus on winning hearts, restoring dignity and supporting development at the grassroots.
Paying tribute to fallen soldiers, the President said their sacrifices remain permanently etched in Nigeria’s national memory, assuring that the government will continue to support their families and improve the welfare of serving personnel in recognition of their service to the nation.
Earlier, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended the Nigerian Army for its efforts in strengthening civil–military relations in the state.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to supporting the Army in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities within the state and beyond.
In his remarks, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), confirmed the commitment of the Tinubu administration, through the Ministry of Defence, to providing continuous policy direction for the Nigerian Army.
He called on officers and commanders to remain loyal and united, stressing the need for collective support to enable the Army effectively address the country’s security challenges.
The Defence Minister also praised the officers and men currently deployed in various operations, even as he thanked Nigerians for their confidence in the Armed Forces, assuring that government would act with renewed vigour and decisiveness in tackling prevailing security threats.
In his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, unveiled a range of welfare packages designed to enhance the wellbeing of officers and men of the Nigerian Army.
He explained that the welfare packages are part of deliberate efforts to boost morale and improve operational effectiveness across the Army.
The Chief of Army Staff also disclosed that President Tinubu has consistently provided the operational needs of the Nigerian Army since assuming office.
He commended the Federal Government for meeting the operational demands of the Army, urging officers, particularly commanders and personnel on special operations, to justify the confidence reposed in them.
Reviewing the Army’s achievements over the past year, General Shaibu reaffirmed the readiness of the Nigerian Army to match government’s support with decisive action against terrorism and other security threats confronting the nation.
High point of the event was unveiling of a biography of the late former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, by Vice President Shettima, alongside senior military officers and other dignitaries.
The Vice President presented 15 Toyota Hilux vehicles to deserving warrant officers as part of efforts to motivate personnel and encourage excellence in service.
He also witnessed the presentation of cheques under the Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance Scheme to the families of five fallen soldiers.
The event was attended by representatives of the President of the Senate, former Defence and Army Chiefs, and traditional rulers, among others.
President Tinubu: We’re Mobilising All Military Assets To Protect Nigerians, Crush Security Threats
News
Defence Minister urges unity, actionable strategies at COAS 10th annual conference to consolidate Nigeria’s security gains
Defence Minister urges unity, actionable strategies at COAS 10th annual conference to consolidate Nigeria’s security gains
By: Zagazola Makama
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has called for a decisive shift from discussion to action in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges, stressing that the country’s gains against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal networks can only be sustained through joint operations, inter-agency collaboration, and collective national effort.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 10th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025 in Lagos, on Monday, General Musa described the gathering as a critical forum for assessing the operational posture, readiness, and professionalism of the Nigerian Army while aligning the service’s priorities with the nation’s strategic security objectives.
“The importance of this conference cannot be overstated,” General Musa said. “Nigeria continues to face a combination of terrorism, banditry, criminality, and other asymmetric threats that demand sustained focus, strategic clarity, and adaptive leadership. The Army, together with other security agencies and the society at large, must operate in unison to confront these threats effectively.”
The Minister highlighted that the operational capacity of terrorist groups, insurgents, and criminal networks has been significantly degraded across multiple theatres, attributing these gains to the courage and professionalism of the troops, improved planning, education, and coordinated joint operations conducted within a multi-agency framework.
“The truth of the matter is that no single service, no single individual, can achieve this alone,” he said. “Success in today’s security environment requires the whole of society working together in synergy.”
General Musa emphasized that inter-service cooperation and intelligence sharing are no longer optional but fundamental to effective national defense. He urged the Army leadership to ensure that the recommendations from the conference are implemented through concrete operational actions, stressing that strategic discussions must translate into measurable tactical outcomes.
“While we celebrate our successes, we must never lose sight of the human dimension of service,” he added, paying tribute to fallen soldiers, wounded personnel, and the families who bear the enduring cost of national service.
He commended the families of the late Lieutenant General Tariq Lagbajan and Brigadier General Oba for their sacrifices and underscored the government’s continued commitment to the welfare, medical care, and long-term support of personnel and their families.
General Musa also lauded the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his professional trajectory, from battalion and brigade commands in the North East to theatre command, culminating in his appointment as the Army Chief. “Your leadership exemplifies operational excellence and a deep understanding of the challenges on the ground. The challenge before all senior commanders is to evolve new strategies to defeat the enemies of the state,” he said.
He further highlighted that security remains central to the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering support for the Armed Forces.
According to the Defence Minister, strategic direction, policy support, and capability development provided by the Ministry of Defence will ensure that the Armed Forces remain professional, responsive, and future-ready, while reinforcing institutional accountability and operational effectiveness.
“The Nigerian Army and indeed the Armed Forces have stabilized this country and will continue to do so. We must take these security challenges as our own and contribute individually and collectively to winning this war,” General Musa stated.
The 10th COAS Annual Conference, themed “Examine the Correct Landscape of Terrorism Through the Lengths of Diplomatic and Military Action: Strategies for Long-Term Prevention and Stabilization,”brings together senior commanders, security stakeholders, and resource persons to reflect on lessons learned, examine emerging threats, and propose practical measures to enhance operational readiness and effectiveness in the year ahead.
The Defence Minister concluded by thanking Nigerians for their support and the Governor of Lagos State for hosting the conference, noting that collaborative engagement between the government, security agencies, and citizens is key to sustaining national peace, security, and stability.
Defence Minister urges unity, actionable strategies at COAS 10th annual conference to consolidate Nigeria’s security gains
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