The Nigerian judiciary has announced a judicial review of the controversial case involving a Nigerian-born nurse convicted of murdering infants in the United Kingdom. The review, ordered by the Federal High Court, follows petitions questioning the applicability of UK court rulings under Nigerian law.
The nurse, whose identity remains protected under UK privacy laws, was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2023 for killing seven newborns while working at a British hospital. The case resurfaced in Nigeria after advocacy groups argued that local laws should address potential jurisdictional overlaps.
A statement issued by the Attorney General’s office confirmed that the review would examine legal frameworks for cross-border criminal cases involving Nigerian citizens. “This process is not an attempt to undermine foreign judgments but to ensure alignment with our constitutional provisions,” the statement read.
Public reactions have been divided, with some hailing the move as a defense of national sovereignty. Victims’ families, however, have expressed outrage. “Justice was served in the UK. This review feels like a betrayal,” said a spokesperson for the British victims’ coalition.
It was confirmed that hearings would begin on March 10, 2025, with testimonies from international legal experts. The nurse, currently incarcerated in the UK, is not expected to attend proceedings.
Human rights groups have staged protests in Abuja, demanding that the case not be politicized. “Victims’ voices must remain central in this process,” insisted Amnesty International Nigeria’s director.
Analysts warn the review could strain Nigeria-UK diplomatic relations if perceived as undermining judicial reciprocity. The Federal Government has assured stakeholders of its commitment to international legal cooperation.
As debates intensify, the court’s final decision is anticipated to set precedents for future transnational criminal cases involving Nigerian nationals.
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