NEWS
Abia State Restorative Justice Bill Scales Second Reading, Targets Healing for Crime Victims
The Abia State House of Assembly has advanced efforts to strengthen justice delivery and victim support with the successful second reading of the Abia State Restorative Justice Bill, 2026.
The bill, sponsored by the Majority Leader, Hon. Okoro Uchenna Kalu, was considered during plenary and received the backing of lawmakers, paving the way for further legislative scrutiny.
Leading the debate on the proposed legislation, Hon. Okoro explained that the bill is designed to establish a restorative justice framework in Abia State, aimed at ensuring that victims of crimes and violent attacks receive meaningful redress for the harm suffered.
He noted that the legislation seeks to promote accountability by compelling offenders to take responsibility for their actions and actively participate in repairing the damage caused to victims and affected communities.
According to the lawmaker, the proposed legal framework will not only focus on punishment but will also prioritize reconciliation, healing, and the restoration of relationships damaged by criminal acts. He emphasized that the bill would provide a pathway for justice that addresses the needs of victims while encouraging offenders to make amends for their conduct.
Hon. Okoro urged members of the House to support the measure, stressing that its passage would help bring relief to victims, foster peace, and promote social harmony across the state.
Following deliberations, the House committed the bill to the Committee of the Whole for further legislative consideration and necessary actions before its eventual passage.