National Assembly Passes Bill Seeking To Protect Witnesses In Criminal Prosecution

The National Assembly has passed a bill seeking to protect witnesses in criminal prosecution by changing their identities, keeping them in Federal Government custody and paying them.

The Witness Protection and Management Bill, twenty twenty-two will allow the prosecuting agency to alter the birth, death and marriage record to conceal the identity and protect a witness especially at the court.

During the proceedings, the witness will bear a new name and other identities.

The Senate passed the bill on March thirtieth, while the House passed it on May seventh this year.

The proposal is awaiting assent by President Muhammadu Buhari.