Abuja, Oct 14, 2024 (TheGavel) — In a significant step towards reforming Nigeria’s justice system, the Federal Government has urged stakeholders in the justice sector to adopt restorative justice as a central approach for conflict resolution. This call was made by Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation at the Federal Ministry of Justice, during the opening of a two-day sensitization workshop aimed at facilitating the implementation of restorative justice in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Mr. Abubakar emphasized the importance of aligning collective efforts towards a new approach to justice—“one that fosters healing, reconciliation, accountability, and restoration.” He articulated that restorative justice transcends mere policy; it embodies a fundamental shift in how society addresses conflict, crime, and harm within communities. “It challenges us to think beyond punishment and retribution, asking us to reimagine justice as a process of repair, resolution, and reintegration. The concept of restorative justice goes to the root of our Africaness, which believes that we cannot come back from court and remain as good neighbours,” he stated.
Abubakar called on law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, government agencies, and community members to embrace this restorative justice framework, recognizing its potential benefits for society.
Prof. Muhammed Ladan, former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, supported the call for restorative justice, stating that its adoption is critical to addressing the longstanding issues within Nigeria’s criminal justice system. He noted that implementing restorative justice could significantly alleviate problems such as court congestion and overcrowding in correctional centers, remarking, “Restorative justice is already part of the traditional system; so what we need is complementarity.”
Adding to the dialogue, His Royal Highness Luka Ayedoo, the Etsu of Kwali, expressed his enthusiasm for the ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s justice sector. He acknowledged the multitude of challenges facing the justice system and highlighted the necessity of discussions aimed at reducing these burdens. “Restorative justice is our own system of addressing justice until the Western world received it. It is very original to us, and I am glad we are beginning to embrace it, though with some changes,” he remarked. Ayedoo also emphasized that the restorative justice system would ensure accountability for offenders, stating, “By so doing, you will bring healing and de-escalate further conflicts.” He asserted that traditional institutions play a vital role in effective dispute resolution and that their involvement is crucial for the successful implementation of restorative justice.
The workshop gathered a diverse group of participants, including judges, lawyers, and educators, who engaged in meaningful discussions on the principles and potential applications of restorative justice in Nigeria. (NAN)
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