The Nigeria Police Force has once again expressed strong disapproval of mob justice, emphasizing its harmful effects on the country’s justice system.
This information was included in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, posted on the force’s X account on Monday.
The statement emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force has reiterated its warning against mob justice in the country due to its negative impact on the efficient administration of justice, which can significantly impede the smooth dispensation of justice in documented cases in our country.
“It is important to understand that the act of taking the law into one’s hands is often referred to as mob justice. The act has been globally criticized for many obvious reasons, particularly as a hindrance to strengthening the criminal justice system.
“For example, police officers at the Itire Divisional Police Headquarters of Lagos State on March 25, 2024 received a report from a man residing along Shonde Street, Itire, that a group of hoodlums were vandalizing his vehicle and he raised an alarm which led to the arrest of one of the vandals.
Adejobi added that the vandal was handed over to one Agunbiade Adekunle ‘m’, the security guard of the street, who then resorted to killing and setting the vandal ablaze.
He noted that the guard has, however, been arrested and will be charged to court for murder.
The statement added, “There are other similar cases recorded across the country that have been condemned and hindered the smooth investigation and prosecution of many cases.
“The Nigeria Police Force therefore condemns and urges the public to avoid mob justice, mob actions, and other forms of extrajudicial killings as mob justice is a criminal act and serious violation of human rights that threatens the fabric of a civilized society, perpetuating a cycle of violence, prejudice, and lawlessness. It undermines the authority of legitimate institutions and weakens the rule of law.
“Mob justice is a perilous and backward practice that has no place in a civilized society. Instead of promoting justice, it breeds violence, fear, and injustice. It is crucial that communities reject vigilantism and uphold the rule of law, ensuring that justice is served through fair and transparent legal processes. Only then can we truly uphold the principles of democracy, human rights, and equality for all.
