The Lagos State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to provide support for Witnesses and Victims of crime during Court trials.
The State Director of Public Prosecutions, Olayinka Adeyemi, assured the residents of Odi -Olowo /Ojuwoye Community during a sensitization programme in collaboration with Rule of Law Anti-Corruption Agency (ROLAC) at Odi -Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA on Thursday April 6th, 2021.
She said the Witness Support Unit, under the Department of Public Prosecutions was established to provide all necessary support ranging from psychosocial financial and legal to witnesses especially victims of assaults, defilement, rape, armed robbery amongst others and also ensures adequate protection for such Witnesses through the duration of Court trials.
While appreciating the large turn out of Odi-Olowo residents at the Sensitization programme, Olayinka noted that the community will be better enlightened on the roles and importance of Witnesses and their rights under the Law.
The Director said that without Witnesses during Court trials, cases may not proceed as expected and this in turn could lead to unnecessary delay in the dispensation of Justice.
In her words, “Witnesses play a vital and important role in every case as this will ease the workload of Judges and Counsel thereby ensuring that judgement is served promptly and appropriately “
She further mentioned that part of the rights of Witnesses is to be regularly informed on the proceedings and status of their cases while also educating them on their obligation.
The Coordinator of the Witness Support Unit Adetutu Oshinusi added while addressing the gathering that it is the responsibility of the Unit to properly guide Witnesses on how to be credible witnesses during trials.
Adetutu, however, implored all would be Witnesses to remain courageous while they provide needed evidence to ensure efficiency in the administration of Criminal Justice in Lagos State.