… Murtala’s family hopeful of justice  for Zackary, 31 years after

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

The National Assembly is set to discuss the Victims’ Rights Bill 2024 for passage and subsequent approval by President Bola Tinubu. The bill seeks to establish comprehensive protections for victims of violent crimes.

Meanwhile, family of the late Head of State Murtala Muhammed, has expressed hope in getting justice for the tragic shooting to death of Zackari Murtala Muhammed in 1993, 31years after.

Zakari was tragically shot on August 13, 1993, and died the next day, August 14, 1993. Despite the identification of suspected perpetrators, the case has been stalled by failures in prosecution.

In an emotional statement to commemorate the anniversary of the death, the Chief Executive Officer, CEO, of Murtala Muhammed Foundation, MMF, Dr. Aisha Mohammed-Oyebode, disclosed that “the National Assembly is set to discuss the Victims’ Rights Bill,” a milestone eagerly anticipated by the Foundation.

“We will not relent until this bill is passed. All victims of crimes are entitled to answers.”

The bill, she stressed also aimed to combat criminal impunity and provide much-needed closure to families of crime victims.

Mohammed-Oyebode referenced the numerous unresolved high-profile murders, including those of Dele Giwa,  Rewane, and  Bola Ige, highlighting the systemic failures in delivering justice, declaring that, “We refuse to quietly continue to bury our dead. There is urgent need for legislative action and robust victim protection laws.”

The Murtala Muhammed Foundation’s advocacy represents a broader call for justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights in Nigeria. The passage of the Victims’ Rights Bill would be a significant step towards addressing these critical issues and honoring the memory of those lost to violent crimes.

Muhammed-Oyebode commended the lawmakers, particularly the 26 members, led by Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr. for the advancement recorded on the Victims’ Rights law.

Rotimi, Jr. stated in a release that the pivotal legislation has successfully passed legislative scrutiny, and “is set to be presented for consideration when the House resumes from recess in September.”

According to him, “The Victims’ Rights Bill 2024 aims to establish comprehensive protections for victims of violent crimes, ensuring their safety and involvement throughout the justice process.

“It seeks to address significant deficiencies in current laws by defining victims’ rights clearly, mandating court responsibilities to uphold these rights, and ensuring effective implementation and compliance.”

“Current deficiencies in extant laws create an imbalance where the rights of suspected perpetrators can overshadow those of the victims. This imbalance deepens the suffering of victims and fosters a culture of impunity.”