Stakeholders in the justice sector have emphasised the need to adopt technology in collecting and documenting evidence to enhance the prosecution and conviction of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) cases across Nigeria.
They highlighted that the lack of adequate evidence collection and documentation remains a significant challenge, contributing to the low number of successful prosecutions and convictions for SGBV cases.
Consequently, stakeholders have called on critical players, including the private sector, civil society organisations, and government agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), to leverage technological tools in managing SGBV cases effectively.
Speaking at the 10th Network Conference of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs), held in Abuja and organised by the European Union-funded Rule of Law and Anti-corruption (RoLAC) Programme in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Unit, Hon. Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State High Court detailed how the Lagos State Judiciary has implemented technology to improve SGBV case management.
Justice Oshodi stated, “Integrating digital case management systems, e-filing, and digital evidence collection and documentation, as exemplified by the Lagos State Judiciary’s initiatives, can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of SGBV justice delivery. Notably, using the Scriber application by the police for real-time video recording and transcription of testimonies should be encouraged to ensure accurate recording and preservation of evidence.”
He underscored the need for a holistic approach in the administration of criminal justice across states to achieve positive outcomes for SGBV survivors.
“The establishment of specialised SGBV courts equipped with trained personnel, survivor-centric facilities, and technological adaptations such as video conferencing is critical to providing a sensitive and effective justice process for SGBV survivors,” Oshodi added. “Meticulous investigation, trial preparation, and the anticipation of defence strategies are also key to successful prosecutions.”
Also at the event, Felix Awoniyi, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions at the Ekiti State Ministry of Justice, stressed the importance of thorough investigations in ensuring successful prosecutions of SGBV cases.
“The police are the first responders in cases of this nature. Their investigations form the basis of the legal opinion we generate and the final advice issued to the police,” Awoniyi said. “However, we often find critical details missing in the investigation files transmitted to us. While these details may seem minor to the police, they are crucial for successful prosecution.”
He commended the efforts of the police but emphasised the need for continuous improvement. “Investigation cannot be treated with levity. While the police are doing a fantastic job, there is always room for improvement in any institution,” Awoniyi concluded.
READ FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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