HC Deb 19 November 1947 vol 444 c1127
30. Dr. Segal

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, whether he will give a statistical classification, according to motives, of the 157 cases of murders committed by secret Leopard Societies in Nigeria, which have been brought to light by recent investigations.

Mr. Creech Jones

I have asked the Nigerian Government to supply such information as is available on this point and will write to my hon. Friend as soon as it has been received.

Dr. Segal

Does the right hon. Gentleman really consider that the large number of death sentences passed in these cases has been fully justified, and cannot this very tragic sociological problem be dealt with by other than punitive measures?

Mr. Creech Jones

I have brought certain aspects of this matter to the notice of the Nigerian Government, and I would ask the hon. Gentleman to wait until I receive a reply.