By Praise Chinecherem
International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) has called on Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Anambra State to step up their advocacy efforts for the speedy passage of two key legislative instruments — Criminal Code Bill and Correctional Service Bill.
State Project Coordinator, Josephine Onah made the call during a strategic planning meeting held with CSO partners under the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Phase II programme in Awka.
She said both bills are aimed at strengthening the state’s justice system and protecting the rights of citizens, especially victims of abuse and injustice.
Onah underscored the critical role of CSOs in influencing legislative reforms and pushing for full implementation of laws that promote justice, equity, and accountability.
She said the Criminal Code Bill and Correctional Service Bill, which were submitted to the Anambra State Attorney General in 2024, are currently before the State House of Assembly awaiting legislative action.
She urged CSOs to carry out sustained advocacy campaigns to ensure the bills are passed without further delay.
“These bills, once passed, will help to reposition the criminal justice system in Anambra State.
“They will also provide stronger legal backing for the humane treatment of inmates, timely justice delivery, and protection of victims’ rights, especially during prosecution and trial,” she added.
In addition to legal reform, Onah highlighted the importance of issuing protection orders for victims and survivors, especially in cases of gender-based violence and other rights violations.
She stressed the urgency of improving access to justice for vulnerable groups, particularly in the enforcement of the Child Rights Law, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law (VAPP), and other health-related legal frameworks.
“Protection orders should be made more accessible and efficiently enforced during court proceedings,” she said. “CSOs have a critical part to play in monitoring these processes and ensuring justice is not delayed or denied.”
During the session, CSO representatives reflected on their experiences in engaging with the justice sector and highlighted challenges such as bureaucratic delays, limited access to protection orders for victims, and lack of adequate resources for legal aid.
Participants proposed several strategies to strengthen their advocacy, including targeted advocacy visits to key stakeholders such as the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, the Ministry of Justice, and relevant House Committees.
They also called for enhanced collaboration between government actors and civil society, increased public awareness campaigns, and capacity building for community-based organisations.
The meeting forms part of a broader effort by the RoLAC programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by International IDEA, to promote democratic governance, rule of law, and human rights in Nigeria.
The initiative continues to provide technical support to stakeholders in Anambra State to improve legal frameworks and the functionality of the justice system.
