… Aims to Shift Focus from Punishment to Healing
The Federal Government announced on Monday that it has approved the implementation of a restorative justice system in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. This system will focus on addressing the needs of crime victims rather than solely punishing offenders.
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPPF), Mohammed Abubakar, spoke during the opening of a two-day workshop for facilitators on implementing restorative justice in the FCT. He emphasized that this system, as an alternative to traditional court procedures, would help decongest prisons while promoting quicker resolutions through “repair, resolution, and reintegration.”
Abubakar explained, “Restorative justice aligns with our African values, where we believe that we cannot come back from court and still remain good neighbors. Today, we gather to explore how key stakeholders can collaborate to successfully implement this model in the FCT.”
He further highlighted that the goal of restorative justice is to create outcomes that are not only fair but also provide healing for all parties involved. “By focusing on accountability and empathy, we aim to reduce repeat offenses, lessen the emotional burden on victims, and strengthen the community,” he said.
Abubakar also acknowledged skepticism about the new approach. He clarified that restorative justice is not a lenient alternative, but rather a rigorous process that emphasizes responsibility and active participation in repairing harm.
“It is a chance to humanize the justice system, addressing the root causes of crime rather than just punishing the offenders,” he added.
HRH Luka Ayedoo, the Etsu of Kwali, representing traditional rulers in the FCT, praised the initiative and called for its expansion nationwide. He pointed out that overcrowding in correctional facilities is a major issue and emphasized the importance of involving traditional rulers and community leaders in the process.
Leticia Ayoola-Daniels, Director of Criminal Justice and Reform at the Ministry of Justice, described the system as a forward-thinking reform that focuses on healing rather than punishment. “It engages offenders, victims, and the community in a meaningful way, promoting accountability, healing, and rehabilitation,” she said.