In a significant move to halt the occurrence of jungle justice in Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning to those engaging in this unlawful practice, stating that it is criminal, illogical, and unjustifiable.
The Force Public Relations Officer (PRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said in a statement on Sunday that jungle justice destroys the criminal justice system, undermines the rule of law, and damages Nigeria’s global reputation.
He further emphasized that this heinous act is a betrayal of justice, as it erodes the rule of law, fundamental human rights, and the principles of justice.
Adejobi also noted that jungle justice often results in the destruction of property and tragic loss of life. He recounted recent incidents where alleged criminals in police custody and a security officer lost their lives during attacks.
According to Adejobi, on October 13, 2024, an alleged terrorist being held in police custody was set ablaze along with a police van.
Additionally, a police barracks and the Divisional Police Station in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, were attacked. The police described these events as “absolutely wrong and quite unfair.”
Adejobi highlighted the efforts made by the police to apprehend three suspects linked to this criminal act.
In another attack on October 19, 2024, a police officer, ASP Augustine Osupayi, attached to the Lagos State Command and deployed to disperse a violent mob attempting to carry out jungle justice, lost his life.
The Force spokesman wrote: “In another development, a police team attempting to prevent the execution of jungle justice was gruesomely attacked by a violent mob on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in Agege, Lagos State, leading to the death of police officer ASP Augustine Osupayi, attached to the Lagos State Command.”
“The police team had arrived to rescue a driver who was alleged to have accidentally knocked down a motorcycle rider, resulting in the rider’s death. A group of motorcycle riders attacked the driver, who was eventually rescued by the police.”
“The rescue did not sit well with the riders, who then attacked the police team, killing the ASP instantly. This is just one of many incidents recorded across the country.”
While expressing condolences to the bereaved family, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) to investigate these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The NPF reiterated its commitment to upholding the principles of the rule of law and urged the public to shun jungle justice, highlighting the severe consequences of such actions.
By Helen Okechukwu
