EQUITY IN HANDLING CRIMES IN IGBO LAND AMONG THE COMMUNITIES IN OYI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ANAMBRA STATE

Abstract

This study focuses on the fairness applied in crime cases among the communities in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. Equity entails equal justice for all. People can as well have access to justice as and when due. Crime is when an act that violates the laws of the land is committed. Punishment is required in proportionate to the offence committed. The communities in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State are not free from unlawful citizens. Unlawful behaviours bring about instability which can threaten the peaceful co-existence of the members of the community. The study therefore explores the justness applied to crimes that affect human life (murder), freedom (kidnapping), sex (incest) and religion and belief system (masquerade desecration). This can be an avenue of curbing excesses within the communities and the nation at large. In addition, the study also seeks just punishment for crimes to ensure fair and impartial treatment to all. The aim is to discourage crime that will eventually breed a disharmonious society. The research work is descriptive in nature. The population of the study was drawn from the five communities in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nteje,Ogbunike,Awkuzu, Nkwelle-Ezunaka and Umunya. The researcher adopts the use of oral interview as a means of data collection. Natural Law Theory was adopted for the study. Findings show that equity brings about unity, love and harmony which go a long way in discouraging bad behaviour. It is therefore pertinent for the members of the communities and the nation at large to embrace the fairness found in the informal justice system among these communities for a better society.