Women's Rights And The Nigerian Criminal Justice System: A Sorry Tale

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Introduction

In any criminal proceeding, there should be respect for the rights of the victim and the accused irrespective of the sex, tribe or status. They are to be treated with justice and dignity. The existence of a criminal justice system (C.J.S.) is to guarantee the ultimate protection of the society’s basic value and norms. In virtually all civilized societies, there are rights which are universal, basic and enjoyed with fellow human beings. In many societies, women are dealt with on the basis of prejudicial stereotypes. Under the C.J.S, this is becoming apparent with the increase in female criminality that is attributed to changes in sexual roles, the economy and exposure due to women’s liberation movement. Generally, in present times, women cannot be likened to Ceasar’s wife who was “above,board and beyond reproach”.

In theory and legal terms, women have different rights but in practical terms these are more honoured in words than observance. According to Schacht “women under the Islamic criminal law and procedure, have an inferior status and the are prohibited from serving as witness although in certain cases, two female witnesses may substitute for a man. Moreso females receive half the compensation of males1.

The criminal process include everything that is required to be done from the moment a woman comes into contact with the C.J.S. and at every stage, such women have rights which are not genderized except in particular issues but such rights are violated.

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Women's Rights And The Nigerian Criminal Justice System: A Sorry Tale

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