Report by: Jacobs Dunga, Lagos
The Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi has addressed the public on the “detrimental jungle justice.”
The Police chief addressed the issue via his official X handle on the first of April, 2024.
The act of taking laws into one’s hands which involves unjustifiable killings and cruel punishments on suspected victims thus referred to as “jungle justice” has ravaged the Nigerian community over the years.
Several cases of unproven and unverified criminal acts have been wrongly dealt with by individuals who shun the cause of the law.
Prince Olumuyiwa, in a lengthy address, condemned the public and barbaric judgment and urged the public to consider the smooth dispensation of justice.
“The Nigeria Police Force has again warned against jungle justice in the country as such affects the effective administration of justice, which could be much detrimental to the smooth dispensation of justice in recorded cases in our dear country.” He wrote on his X handle.
“It is pertinent to understand that the act of taking the law into one’s hands has often been described and referred to as jungle justice. The act has globally been condemned for many obvious reasons, particularly as a parasitic hindrance to strengthening the criminal justice system.” He continued.
The Police Superintendent went further to warn that “jungle justice” is a “criminal act” and “grace violation” of human rights.
“The Nigeria Police Force, therefore condemns and urges the public to shun jungle justice, mob actions, and other forms of extrajudicial killings as jungle justice is a criminal act and grave 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.”
In conclusion, the sixth-ranked Police chief enjoined the public to eschew this violence-inciting and unjust approach to handling suspected criminal cases.
“Jungle justice is a dangerous and regressive practice that has no place in a civilized society. Instead of promoting justice, it breeds violence, fear, and injustice. Communities must 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.”
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
