Federal High Court to Hear Landmark Case on Victims’ Rights in 2026

A significant legal proceeding has been scheduled for January 20, 2026, at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, regarding the rights of victims of rape and incest. Justice Lewis Allagoa will preside over the case, which has been initiated by the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) against the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and several other government agencies.

The suit, designated as number FHC/LAG/975/2025, also includes the Minister of Health, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) as respondents. Legal representation for the applicants includes distinguished lawyers such as Prof. Yemi Oke, SAN, Dr. Yinka Owoeye, Emmanuella Azu, Deji Folorunsho, and Oluwatobi Adeniregun.

WARDC is advocating for critical reliefs from the court, including affirmations that victims of rape and incest have the legal right to safe termination of pregnancy, comprehensive medical care, psychological support, and access to medical abortion services as outlined in the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act. The organization is also requesting any additional orders the court may consider necessary to safeguard the rights of these victims.

During a preliminary mention of the case, the hearing was postponed after none of the government agencies involved appeared. Speaking on behalf of the applicants, Prof. Oke expressed concern over the absence of the respondents, stating that the issue at hand is “of unique importance and national significance.” He articulated disappointment that these agencies failed to show what he termed “patriotism” by attending the hearing.

“This is a matter every conscious Nigerian and global citizen should be interested in,” Prof. Oke emphasized. “We are here to move the hand of justice to give effect to the rights of victims of rape and incest for safe termination of pregnancy.”

Justice Allagoa raised questions regarding the proper service of the court documents, insisting on proof that all respondents had been duly notified. The court subsequently adjourned the case to January 20, 2026, for the hearing.

The case is viewed as a crucial test of government accountability in ensuring the protection of the rights of victims of sexual violence in Nigeria. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, many will be watching closely to see how this landmark case unfolds.