File photo of Musa Aliyu
Musa Aliyu, chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), says he took a firm stance on the prosecution of rape cases during his time as the attorney-general of Jigawa state.
Speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) secretariat in Abuja during a panel session, Aliyu said from 2019 to 2023, no state attorney-general took on rape prosecutions or appealed light sentencing as vigorously as he did.
The event, held on July 28, was themed ‘Beyond the Wig: Practical Steps into Legal Practice with a Focus on Both Public and Private Sector Career Pathways’.
Reflecting on his journey from private practice to public service, Aliyu said his move to becoming a government official allowed him to make meaningful contributions to the lives of the underprivileged.
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“It was at the point that I crossed into public service that I had the opportunity to touch a lot of lives, especially the underprivileged and voiceless in society. I ensured cases of rape were dealt with seriously in our states,” he said.
“To the best of my knowledge, there is no state from 2019 – 2023 where its Attorney-General has vigorously prosecuted rape cases and challenged light sentencing of rapists like the way it was done during my time as Attorney General in Jigawa State.
“Those cases, especially those at the Court of Appeal, have been reported.
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“I was able to make direct and meaningful contributions to the legal system in the State, notably in the areas of criminal justice sector and reforms in other sectors, which include the passing of Child Protection Law, Social Protection Law, etc.”
He added that his tenure brought reforms to the legal system, and ensured transparency in the appointment of judicial officers in Jigawa.
