By Femi Emmanuel
The recurring incidents of jungle justice across Nigeria have continued to raise deep concerns about the sanctity of human life and respect for the rule of law. Reports of irate mobs killing individuals suspected of criminal activities have become frequent, reflecting growing frustration among citizens over insecurity but also undermining the principles of justice.
Section 33 of the Nigerian Constitution expressly prohibits murder and manslaughter, affirming that no individual has the right to unlawfully take another person’s life. Unfortunately, in recent times, many Nigerians appear to disregard this fundamental principle by resorting to mob action whenever a suspected criminal is caught.
These unlawful killings, often carried out immediately at the scene of an alleged crime, are not only against the law but also against humanity. Such actions amount to people taking laws into their own hands, even though the responsibility of arresting and prosecuting offenders lies solely with the security agencies.
Suspected criminals, no matter the gravity of their alleged offences, are to be handed over to the police for proper investigation and prosecution in a court of law. Only the judiciary has the constitutional power to determine guilt and prescribe punishment in accordance with due process. Jungle justice, on the other hand, denies suspects their right to fair hearing and has often led to the death of innocent people wrongly accused of crimes or even blasphemy.
While acknowledging the pains and damages inflicted on society by criminal elements, jungle justice cannot be justified. It is a dangerous practice that erodes the rule of law and fosters lawlessness. Nigerians are therefore urged to desist from such acts and allow justice to take its rightful course.
Femi Emmanuel commended security agencies for their efforts in safeguarding lives and property, noting their proactive measures in preventing and disrupting criminal activities nationwide. According to him, their commitment and dedication to duty have been central to maintaining law and order, as well as ensuring peace and stability in the country.
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