A Call for Reform in Nigeria’s Justice System
Stakeholders and gender advocates have urged a complete transformation of Nigeria’s justice system to better support women and girls, especially those who are survivors of gender-based violence. This call has come to the forefront during discussions at the Ford Foundation dialogue, which took place on the sidelines of the CSW70 in New York, United States.
The dialogue focused on the effectiveness of Nigeria’s plural justice system, highlighting that the country’s legal framework—made up of statutory, customary, and religious systems—often creates gaps that leave survivors vulnerable. These gaps are due to high costs, slow processes, and restrictive cultural norms that prevent women from accessing justice.
During the event, the Dein of Agbor, Obi Benjamin Ikenchukwu Keagboruzi, pointed out that economic barriers such as court fees and transportation costs often make formal justice inaccessible for women. As a result, many are forced to rely on customary systems that may not always protect them.
Justice Bukunola Adebiyi from the Lagos State High Court emphasized that laws alone cannot guarantee justice. She stressed the importance of strengthening investigation and evidence-gathering processes to ensure that cases do not fail before they reach judgment.
Ngozi Enih, the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development in Enugu State, shared her perspective as both a survivor and a policymaker. She explained that many families withdrew their cases because the perpetrator was often the breadwinner. “Justice competes with survival—and too often, survival wins,” she said.
Prof Joy Ezeilo (SAN), Executive Director of WACOL and moderator of the session, argued that Nigeria’s plural legal system should be shaped to ensure all platforms evolve toward a single standard of dignity and equality. She emphasized the need for a unified approach that respects the rights of all individuals.
Dr ChiChi Aniagolu-Okoye, Regional Director for West Africa at the Ford Foundation, concluded that the future of justice for Nigerian women lies at the intersection of courts, communities, and cultures. She stressed that this future must be designed with the lived realities of women at its center.
Key Challenges in the Current Justice System
- High Costs: Many women cannot afford court fees or transportation, making formal justice inaccessible.
- Slow Processes: The time it takes for cases to be resolved often leads to frustration and discouragement among survivors.
- Cultural Norms: Traditional practices and societal expectations can hinder women from seeking help or reporting incidents of violence.
The Need for a Unified Approach
To address these challenges, experts suggest that the justice system must be restructured to prioritize the needs of women and girls. This includes:
- Economic Support: Providing financial assistance to reduce the burden of court fees and other associated costs.
- Legal Reforms: Ensuring that laws are not only written but also implemented effectively.
- Community Engagement: Involving local communities in the justice process to build trust and encourage participation.
The Role of Advocacy and Awareness
Advocates emphasize the importance of raising awareness about the available legal resources and support systems. This includes educating women about their rights and the steps they can take to seek justice.
Additionally, there is a need for more training for legal professionals to ensure they understand the unique challenges faced by women and girls. This will help create a more empathetic and effective justice system.
Conclusion
The dialogue highlighted the urgent need for reform in Nigeria’s justice system. By addressing the gaps in the current framework and ensuring that the voices of women and girls are heard, the country can move towards a more equitable and just society. The path forward requires collaboration between legal institutions, community leaders, and advocates to create a system that truly serves all citizens.
