Witness Protection and Criminal Justice in Africa: Nigeria in International Perspective

This book examines the concept of witness protection in Nigeria from a legal and institutional perspective, highlighting the need to clarify legal and conceptual issues within the existing framework. It adopts two distinct perspectives: criminal justice and human rights, and makes normative proposals for developing a legal framework for witness protection in Nigeria. It will be a valuable resource for legal scholars, researchers, academics, postgraduate students, and policy makers interested in the concept of witness protection.

Format: Hardback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the realm of witness protection, a concept that is still in its early stages of development in numerous African countries, including Nigeria. By examining the issue from a legal and institutional standpoint, the book sheds light on the need for clarity in the existing legal framework for safeguarding witnesses. Through a detailed case study of Nigeria, the book highlights several complexities inherent in the concept of witness protection, focusing on five critical areas: the definition of witness protection, the scope of beneficiaries who require protection, the nature of crimes that necessitate protection, the nature of protective measures, and the administrative control of witness protection.

To provide a comprehensive analysis, the book draws upon existing literature and practices related to witness protection and adopts two distinct perspectives: the criminal justice perspective and the human rights perspective. These perspectives serve as heuristic tools to distinguish the various influences that shape the interpretation and application of witness protection. Throughout the book, these distinctions are integrated to develop a holistic conceptualization of witness protection.

By discussing the practice of witness protection within the Nigerian context, the book contributes to ongoing African discussions on this critical issue. The clarifications provided in the book are utilized to make normative proposals for developing a comprehensive legal framework for witness protection in Nigeria. Furthermore, these proposals have relevance for other African countries seeking to establish witness protection frameworks as part of criminal justice reform efforts.

This book serves as a valuable resource for legal scholars, researchers, academics, postgraduate students, and policy makers who are interested in exploring the concept of witness protection. It provides a comprehensive examination of the topic, offering insights into the legal, institutional, and practical aspects of witness protection. The book's detailed case study of Nigeria adds depth and relevance to its discussions, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand and address the challenges associated with protecting witnesses in African countries.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032057934