NAPTIP denies claims of negligence by GBV victim

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has denied claims by a victim of gender-based violence, Jamila Sirajo, who in her viral video, said the agency did nothing regarding her complaint of domestic abuse.

“These claims are both shocking and utterly unfounded…we strongly refute the false allegations,” NAPTIP said in a statement signed by its communications officer, Adekoye Vincent, on Tuesday.

The statement is titled, ‘NAPTIP affirms commitment to justice amidst false accusations by Jamila Sidi Sirajo.’

On September 30, 2020, Jamila Sirajo reported a case of spousal battery and abandonment against her estranged husband, Mohammed Tafida.

NAPTIP said despite the commencement of investigations, she withdrew her petition on October 12, 2020, citing advice from family and friends to resolve the matter privately.

“In a twist of events, on November 9, 2020, Jamila requested the Agency to reopen her case, which NAPTIP promptly did, recommencing the investigation.

“Upon conclusion of the investigation, a two-count charge was filed against Mohammed Tafida at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, dated July 8, 2021 (Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Mohammed Tafida, Charge No: CR/226/2021).

“The Charge is presently pending before Hon. Justice Abubakar Shani sitting at Court 30 Apo, Abuja. The arraignment scheduled for November 9, 2021, was stalled due to the defendant’s absence, leading to multiple adjournments and the eventual issuance of a bench warrant. The matter was further adjourned to the February 24, 2022,” said NAPTIP.

The agency said at the resumed hearing, the defendant who was still absent from the proceedings was represented by counsel who filed processes to set aside the bench warrant against him.

In a considered ruling delivered on March 14, 2022, the court set aside the bench warrant and ordered the prosecutor (NAPTIP) to serve the defendant with a summons and all other Court processes.

Adekoye said, “Despite extensive efforts, including seeking cooperation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other entities, the defendant’s whereabouts remained unknown until it was discovered he had been posted to Pakistan as a diplomat.

“The Agency was further compelled to apply for substituted service, granted on October 5, 2022, to serve court processes at the defendant’s last known address and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, being his office. The Baliff of the court effected service by substituted means as ordered by the Court.

“The defendant’s counsel repeatedly challenged the court’s jurisdiction and alleged bias, both of which were dismissed by the court after thorough consideration of the prosecution’s counter affidavit.”

The defendant’s counsel also petitioned the agency to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice alleging victimisation and persecution of the defendant.

Against the foregoing, NAPTIP said it had, “demonstrated unwavering diligence in prosecuting the case, countering unfounded accusations from Jamila Sidi Sirajo.”

The anti-trafficking agency said despite the overbearing conduct and unjustified imputations of compromise by the complainant on several occasions, its officers have maintained professional integrity and commitment to justice.

It concluded, “The officer originally prosecuting the matter had to request to withdraw from the case due to all the unfounded allegations by Jamila and the case was transferred to another officer to prosecute.

“NAPTIP will not be swayed by attempts to undermine its mission through baseless allegations by Jamila.

“The Agency remains steadfast in upholding the law and ensuring justice for all victims of sexual and domestic violence in the Federal Capital Territory. We continue to call on all stakeholders to support our efforts and ensure justice is served.”