The Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Rep Akin Rotimi, along with 25 other lawmakers, has announced the progression of the Victims’ Rights Bill 2024. The bill aims to establish comprehensive protections for victims of violent crimes, ensuring their safety and involvement throughout the justice process.
Inspired by the tragic killing of Zakari Muhammed, son of late Head of State General Murtala Muhammed, the bill seeks to address deficiencies in current laws by clearly defining victims’ rights, mandating court responsibilities, and ensuring effective implementation and compliance.
Rep Rotimi emphasized the need for fairness in the justice system, stating that the current imbalance between the rights of suspected perpetrators and victims fosters a culture of impunity. The bill has garnered broad multi-partisan support from 25 co-sponsors and is set to be presented for consideration when the House resumes from recess in September.
The Murtala Muhammed Foundation has provided technical support in drafting the bill, and Rep Rotimi has called for further engagement and backing to ensure its successful passage into law and implementation.
