This report is based on joint research by Amnesty International and the Nigerian NGO Legal Defence and Assistance Project (LEDAP). This report reflects on the testimonies of death row prisoners and former prisoners, and on interviews with relevant officials and NGOs in Nigeria. Amnesty states that the assistance of a lawyer is vital to ensuring the right to a fair trial. International standards, such as the Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers, call for the assignment of a lawyer whenever the interests of justice require it, if necessary free of charge.