The Nigeria Police Force has strongly condemned the rising incidence of jungle justice in various parts of the country, deeming it a dangerous and abhorrent trend. In a statement, the police cautioned the public about the severe implications such actions could have on the country’s criminal justice system, rule of law, and international reputation.
This condemnation follows violent mob actions in Agenebode, Edo State, and Agege, Lagos State, where enraged individuals stormed police stations to drag out suspects linked to serious crimes, including kidnapping and organ trafficking. In one incident, a driver accused of hitting a motorcyclist and attempting to kill him was also targeted by the mob. Tragically, these events resulted in the death of a policeman and the destruction of police property, including the burning of patrol vehicles and police stations.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, stated that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has tasked the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) with investigating these incidents and ensuring that all responsible parties face the full consequences of the law.
The statement read: “In view of the recent spate of jungle justice in some parts of the country, the Nigeria Police Force has condemned the dangerous and abhorrent trend and cautioned the general public on the consequences of such on our criminal justice administration, rule of law, and the global reputation of our dear country.”
The police force emphasized that jungle justice is a “deplorable and savage behavior” that has led to tragic loss of life and destruction of property nationwide. They described these actions as a betrayal of justice and due process, undermining the fundamental principles of human rights and justice.
In particular, the police condemned the arson that led to the deaths of suspects in custody and the subsequent destruction of police barracks, patrol vans, and the Divisional Police Station in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State on October 13, 2024. The statement highlighted allegations from the community that the police were attempting to pervert justice by detaining individuals accused of terrorizing the area.
In a concerning note, it was mentioned that the main suspect involved in these events was almost lynched by community members before being rescued by the police. The situation underscores the urgent need for addressing the issue of jungle justice and restoring public trust in the legal system.