A recent study has revealed that a large number of women on death row in Nigeria continue to suffer deep psychological, social, and systemic injustices, with many describing their experiences as shaped by gender bias within the justice system.
The report found that a significant number of the female inmates expressed confusion during investigations and trials, claiming that their cases were negatively influenced by a male-dominated legal structure.
Many said they lacked fair representation or understanding of the legal proceedings that sealed their fate.
Beyond the courtroom, the stigma of incarceration has left lasting scars. Many of the women reported being abandoned by spouses and ostracised by their communities, particularly in cases linked to adultery or sexual offences.
The study also highlighted the devastating impact on their children, who often face disrupted education, emotional trauma, and unstable living conditions due to their mothers’ absence.
Despite the harsh realities of confinement and looming death sentences, over 80 per cent of the women expressed belief in rehabilitation.
They called for restorative justice options, including vocational training, skill acquisition, and reformation programmes, instead of capital punishment.
Advocates say the findings call for an urgent review of Nigeria’s criminal justice system, especially regarding gender sensitivity and humane treatment of female offenders.
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