Murtala Muhammed’s Family Advocates For Victims’ Rights Legislation 30 Years After Son’s Murder

Murtala Muhammed’s Family Advocates For Victims’ Rights Legislation 30 Years After Son’s Murder

Lamenting the flawed prosecution of murder cases in Nigeria, the family of the late former Nigerian Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, commemorated the 30th anniversary of Zackari Muhammed’s tragic death by urging the enactment of legislation safeguarding victims’ rights.

Zackari Muhammed, a 27-year-old finance graduate from the University of Canterbury in Kent, met a tragic end in Abuja on August 13, 1993, when he was fatally shot.

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Dr. Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, speaking on behalf of the family during the anniversary event held in Lagos, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the handling of murder trials in Nigeria.

Muhammed-Oyebode recounted the distressing circumstances surrounding Zackari’s death and criticized the flawed process of the case. She emphasized that the entire procedure was marked by confusion and ultimately led to a miscarriage of justice.

In order to prevent similar occurrences in the future, Muhammed-Oyebode advocated for the creation of legislation that specifically protects the rights of victims, reflecting the nation’s values and principles.

She urged federal legislators to champion the passage of laws centered on victims’ rights.

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Highlighting the importance of such legislative measures, Muhammed-Oyebode emphasized that they would provide comprehensive protection for victims navigating the complex pathways of the criminal justice system.

She noted that globally, victims’ rights are acknowledged as an essential facet of human rights, and the United Nations has already adopted principles for justice in cases of crimes and abuses of power against victims.

Muhammed-Oyebode underscored that it is time for Nigeria to adopt a legal framework that prioritizes victims’ rights, ensuring justice for victims across various criminal cases and establishing a victim-centric legal paradigm.