Earlier this month, the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, reiterated its call for the abolition of the death sentence.
The Association believes it not only denies the right to life but also often reflects the failures of the country’s justice system to protect the most vulnerable in society.
The NBA’s position was reinforced through its president, Afam Osigwe, in his opening remarks at a high level technical consultation jointly organised by the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, Avocats Sans Frontières France, and the Legal Defence and Assistance Project (LEDAP) to commemorate the World Day Against the Death Penalty.
According to the NBA president, the event observed annually on October 10, serves as a powerful reminder of the global movement to challenge the use of capital punishment.
“It is a day that calls us to reflect on the death penalty, not only from a legal perspective but also from a moral, ethical, and human rights viewpoint,” he said.
He equally noted that the event equally presented an opportunity to consider whether the death penalty truly delivers the justice it promises or whether it perpetuates harm and injustice.
Arguing strongly against the practice of death penalty, he quoted the former South African President, Nelson Mandela, as having said: “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity,” and submitted that death penalty, in its ultimate finality, not only denies the right to life but also often reflects the failures of a country’s justice system to protect the most vulnerable in the society.”
Osigwe further argued that in many parts of the world, there is a growing consensus that the death penalty is an outdated and ineffective form of punishment.
“Over 140 countries have abolished the death penalty or introduced moratoriums on its use. This is a testament to the global recognition of the inherent value of human life and the belief that the justice system must reflect a higher standard of humanity and dignity,” he stated.
Peoplesmind
