The gruesome murder of traveling hunters who were brutally mobbed to death in the Uromi community of Esan North Local Government Area, Edo State, once again highlights the alarming rise of mob action and vigilante justice across various parts of Nigeria.
It is deeply troubling that mobs continue to take the law into their own hands, carrying out unlawful attacks and lynching on suspected criminals, often without any form of law enforcement intervention. Such acts not only violate the fundamental rights of individuals but also erode public trust in the criminal justice system.
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The Dangers of Mob Action
No individual, regardless of the crime they are alleged to have committed, should be subjected to mob violence. Every accused person has the constitutional right to a fair trial, which includes thorough investigation, legal representation, and prosecution in a court of law. Resorting to jungle justice only perpetuates lawlessness and undermines the very foundation of our legal system.
This tragic incident must serve as a wake-up call for our law enforcement agencies and the judicial system to ensure that no such crime goes unpunished. Justice must be swift and decisive, and perpetrators of mob violence must be held accountable to deter future occurrences.
Call to Action
I call upon the Edo State Government and relevant security agencies to launch an immediate and thorough investigation into this heinous act and ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice. It is imperative that we reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and reject vigilante justice in all its forms.
Condolences
On behalf of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. May their souls rest in peace, and may their loved ones find the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss.
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As a nation, we must uphold justice, fairness, and the rule of law. Vigilante justice has no place in a civilized society. Let us all work together to ensure that law and order prevail over mob rule and anarchy.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association
