In the wake of widespread criticism following President Bola Tinubu’s recent decision to pardon several Nigerians, Germany, Australia, and Avocats Sans Frontières (ASF) France have jointly urged Nigeria to take decisive measures to abolish the death penalty.
While acknowledging President Tinubu’s clemency that commuted the sentences of seven death row inmates to life imprisonment among the 175 individuals pardoned, these entities emphasized the need for more comprehensive reforms.
This appeal was made during a special screening of the film “Just Mercy” in Abuja, an event organized by ASF France to mark the 2025 World Day Against the Death Penalty.
Germany’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Günther, reaffirmed her country’s steadfast dedication to the global abolitionist movement.
“The death penalty transcends legal frameworks; it challenges fundamental principles of justice, human dignity, and the sanctity of life. Given its irreversible nature, any judicial errors cannot be undone,” she explained.
“Having eliminated capital punishment over seven decades ago, Germany remains a vocal advocate for its worldwide eradication,” Günther added, urging Nigerian authorities to accelerate efforts toward ending this practice.
Echoing this sentiment, Neil Sanderson, Chargé d’Affaires at the Australian High Commission, reiterated Australia’s firm opposition to capital punishment in all forms.
“The death penalty is a barbaric, inhumane, and ineffective form of punishment that violates human dignity and undermines justice,” he stated.
Sanderson also highlighted the encouraging global trend, noting Nigeria’s ongoing constitutional reform discussions that include the possibility of abolition.
“Currently, 144 nations have abolished the death penalty either legally or in practice. Within Africa, countries like Ghana, Zambia, Sierra Leone, the Central African Republic, and Zimbabwe have recently taken historic steps to end capital punishment,” he observed.
Angela Uzoma-Iwuchukwu, Country Director of ASF France in Nigeria, described the World Day Against the Death Penalty as a powerful reminder that justice should never be pursued at the expense of human life.
“This day calls for compassion, introspection, and proactive measures. ASF France remains committed to supporting those facing capital punishment by providing legal aid through our network of volunteer lawyers,” she said.
Uzoma-Iwuchukwu revealed that ASF France has assisted over 800 death row inmates across ten Nigerian states, ensuring they receive fair legal representation and humane treatment under the law.
She further noted that, according to recent data, 26 African countries have abolished the death penalty, 14 continue to enforce it, and 15 are considered de facto abolitionists.
“These figures clearly demonstrate Africa’s gradual alignment with the global movement toward ending this irreversible and inhumane form of punishment,” she concluded.
