Reps Advocate for Stronger Measures Against Homicide and Femicide

In response to the rising number of homicide and femicide cases in Nigeria, the House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, has urged pertinent government agencies to implement more stringent measures.

Awaji-Inombek Abiante, who represents the Andoni/Opobo–Nkoro federal constituency in Rivers State, and three other lawmakers introduced a motion during Tuesday’s plenary that emphasised the concerning increase in violent crimes, especially those committed against women and girls.

Abiante emphasised that although the Nigerian Constitution guarantees the right to life as a fundamental human right, recent statistics show a rise in violent crimes such as murder and manslaughter.

“Femicide—the intentional killing of women and girls due to their gender—has become a major concern, with numerous reported cases in recent years,” he said.

According to sources, the House encouraged the National Judicial Council to create special divisions inside current courts at all levels in order to expedite homicide and femicide cases after the motion was adopted.

“Justice delayed is justice denied. It is crucial that our judicial system responds swiftly to these heinous crimes,” Abiante emphasized.

Lawmakers pledge to strive for more robust measures to defend the rights and dignity of every Nigerian, and the resolution demands for quick involvement to protect lives and ensure justice for victims.