Deeply concerned about the increasing tendency by some citizens to resort
to extra-judicial killings - Jungle Justice - against those suspected to have
committed one crime or another in Nigeria, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP
MD Abubakar, CFR, NPM, mni, psc has warned citizens to desist from such
reprehensible acts. Noting that every Nigerian citizen is entitled to the
Fundamental Right of fair hearing, the IGP insists that none is guilty except a
law court of competent jurisdiction expressly says so.
He therefore has
directed Zonal AIGs, Command CPs and other field Commanders to take adequate
measures to ensure that the rights of every Nigerian citizen, including those
of suspected criminals, are protected.
The IGP warns that any person found to
be involved in any acts of impunity or jungle justice must bear the full wrath
of the law as two wrongs cannot make a right.
Noting that the Force is not opposed to citizens or members of Vigilante
groups exercising their powers of arrest as private citizens, the IGP insists
that such powers must be exercised within the confines of the Law.
Therefore, all such persons arrested must be immediately handed over to
the nearest Police Station within the shortest possible time.
The IGP also called on the social and critical mass particularly the
Human Rights Community and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to live up to
their responsibility of enlightening the public on the dangers and consequences
associated with engaging in jungle justice.
While promising that the Police will continue to work with other
relevant authorities in ensuring quick dispensation of justice at the Law
Courts, the IGP implores citizens to repose confidence in the Police and the
entire Justice System.
Tags
Society