Rapists, corrupt cases get special courts in Lagos

The Lagos state government has launched two special courts meant for prosecution rapists in the state. Two additional courts meant for prosecuting corrupt cases was also inaugurated.

The two courts will focus on special offences such as economic and financial crimes, while the two others will try sexual offences.

Akinwunmi Ambode, Lagos state governor, noted that the establishment of the courts would facilitate expeditious hearing and trial of sexual and financial related crimes.

Ambode, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Oluranti Adebule, said Lagos was collaborating with the British Council under the Rule of Law Anti-Corruption Programme to provide technical support for the anti-corruption fight.

“I am particularly glad about the designation of two courts to handle sexual related offences as it complements our fight against sexual abuse. These sexual offences courts will have trained and experienced prosecutors to interact with survivors, provide support and ensure timely prosecution of the cases,” he said.

Also, Oludolapo Osinbajo, wife of the Vice-President, in her speech, commended the Lagos State Government for establishing the Sexual Offences Court.

She said: `The statistics quoted by the Chief Justice of Lagos is very frightening; it only speaks of half of the true picture. Behind the figures are the faces of the affected women and girls as well as the men and boys.”

In an address of welcome, the Chief Judge of Lagos , Justice Opeyemi Oke, recalled that the journey toward the establishment of the Special Courts started in June 2017 in line with the vision of President Muhammadu Buhari.

She said that the courts would be part of a general judicial reform to make the judiciary more efficient and to facilitate the determination of corruption and financial crime cases.

“We believe strongly that the special courts shall fast track the trial of these types of cases and encourage the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other relevant bodies to expedite the investigation and prosecution of such cases.”