LAGOS ENCOURAGES VICTIMS OF CRIME TO COME FORWARD AS WITNESSES IN COURT TRIALS

The Directorate of Public Prosecutions in the State Ministry of Justice has urged Victims of Crime to remain  courageous by coming out as credible witnesses in Court, to provide evidence during court trials to ensure speedy delivery of justice.

The State Director of Public Prosecutions, Olayinka Adeyemi, gave the charge during an interview on Lagos Traffic Radio, Ikeja on Monday, February 16th 2021.

Adeyemi noted that it is not enough for victims to merely report a crime to the Police but, to also be prepared to go all the way, to make appearances in Court to give evidence when the need arises during Court Trials.

She added that a Witness Support Unit was established under the directorate a few years ago, to  provide support to victims of crime and ensure their rights are protected.

According to her, "A Witness is a critical aspect of any criminal trial.

Adeyemi added that witnessing in court is an obligatory duty for all citizens, in order to ensure an effective and speedy administration of Criminal Justice in Lagos State.

While stating the responsibilities of the Witness Support Unit, she added that adequate protection is given  to all Witnesses who are mostly victims of Crimes against all forms of intimidation. 

"The Unit also provides different kind of support; ranging from psychosocial  to financial, to witnesses especially victims of assaults, defilement, rape, armed robbery amongst others.  The Witness are also educated on the status of their cases, in order to  prepare them for appearances in court".

Speaking, Mrs Adeyemi said the State Ministry of Justice under the leadership of Mr Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN in line with the T.H.E.M.E S agenda of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu's administration continues to ensure speedy dispensation of Justice, which is key to an effective administration of Justice in Lagos State.

The Director stated that the Directorate of Public Prosecutions ensures that Legal Advice is issued within 14 days of receiving the case file in respect of  a crime. While the Witness Support Unit immediately gets connected to the Victims before  the case goes to court.

The DPP, however added that, Witnesses can contact the Ministry of Justice on 08082145935 or 09090152284 to confirm the status of their cases.