Kehinde Fajobi
The Rights Enforcement and Public Law Centre (REPLACE) conducted a sensitisation programme at the Mile 12 International Market, educating traders on their legal rights, and other provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) of Lagos State.
The session, which took place on Saturday, December 14, aimed to empower participants with practical knowledge of legal procedures during arrests, proxy arrests, collaborating with human rights activists, and accessing relevant rights agencies.
Discussions also extended to resolving domestic cases and clarifying women’s rights to stand as sureties in police.
Demilade Pearl, Esq., a legal practitioner present at the sensitisation programmes, explained, “There is a popular notion that a woman can not secure bail without involving a man. But that is not true. The law allows any adult who is fit and proper, regardless of gender, to act as a surety. It is about responsibility, not gender.”
She emphasised the importance of sensitisation, saying, “This campaign ensures everyone understands their rights under the law, especially on issues like gender-based violence and child rights.”
Mrs Adewole Kehinde, an Executive Member of the Mile 12 International Market, praised the initiative for enlightening the people and promoting justice.
She said, “Before, if a woman breaks the law, and they (police) are unable to find her, her husband would be arrested instead, and vice versa. But now it is no more. That is very good.”
She added that the awareness campaign also touched on child rights, stating, “Instead of giving children heavy loads to carry when they are supposed to be in school, that will not happen again, and everyone is happy.”
Mr Olarewaju Onigemo, General Secretary of the Mile 12 International Market, highlighted the far-reaching impact of the sensitisation.
According to him, “If we are able to sensitise 50 people in this market of millions, they will multiply the knowledge by sharing it with others.”
He urged participants to confidently assert their rights in dealings with the police, saying, “If you have any issue with the police, let them shout, but say something. They cannot kill you, and it is better to tell them outright that you have your rights.”
Onigemo, who is also one of the market’s Gender and Sexual Violence advocate noted that the programme complements ongoing efforts to combat domestic violence and sexual harassment within the market, leading to significant progress
“We have many cases of such. We usually go to the police station because harassment or women sexual abuse as well as domestic violence. We address such cases, and they have been reduced drastically”, he said.
Felicitas Aigbogun-Brai, the Executive Director of REPLACE, commended the enthusiasm of the market women.
She remarked, “These women were more responsive and interactive, asking questions in English, Pidgin, or Yoruba. They affirmed that women are equal to men, and women can now stand bail. Lagos State has done a good thing.”
The awareness campaign is part of a broader initiative under the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, funded by the European Union.
It seeks to reduce arbitrary arrests, empower women to stand as sureties, and educate Lagos residents on the ACJL, particularly its 2021 amendments.
Since its launch in 2004, REPLACE has remained committed to addressing systemic issues within Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
The organisation continues to push for justice reform and equality, ensuring vulnerable groups are informed and protected.