The Muslim Lawyers’ Association of Nigeria, Kaduna branch, has condemned the mob killing of a woman at the Maraban Jos area of Kaduna. The association described the incident as barbaric and a serious threat to the rule of law.
This was disclosed in a statement on Tuesday in Kaduna, signed by its chairman, Awwal Shittu, and secretary, Ibrahim Bawa.
MULAN expressed shock and sadness over reports of the attack, murder, and burning of the woman following allegations of child theft. It described the act as jungle justice and maintained that no allegation of criminal conduct justifies extrajudicial punishment.
The association stated that the killing violated the victim’s fundamental right to life as guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.
It said the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly reports that the victim was removed from police custody before being killed, raised serious concerns about security procedures and the protection of persons in lawful custody.
According to MULAN, if confirmed, the development points to possible lapses that require urgent and transparent investigation.
“The duty of law enforcement agencies is to protect lives, maintain law and order, and ensure that suspects are subjected only to lawful investigation and prosecution. No person in police custody should be surrendered, directly or indirectly, to mob violence,” the association stated.
MULAN called for an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the killing and the surrounding circumstances. It also demanded the identification, arrest, and prosecution of all persons involved in carrying out, encouraging, or facilitating the mob action.
The association further urged authorities to investigate the conduct of the security personnel responsible for the deceased’s custody and protection and to apply disciplinary or legal sanctions where necessary.
While commending the police for arrests already made and its commitment to prosecuting those responsible, MULAN stressed that justice must be impartial and extend beyond those physically present at the scene.
The association said investigations should also examine possible acts of negligence, complicity, or omission that may have contributed to the incident.
It pledged to monitor the investigation and prosecution process and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting human rights, accountability, and the sanctity of life through lawful means.
MULAN reiterated that under Nigerian law, every suspect remains innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction. The association warned that mob justice undermines public confidence in lawful institutions and threatens social order.
It also extended condolences to the deceased’s family and prayed for peace, justice, and greater respect for the rule of law.
The incident has attracted reactions from stakeholders following the barbaric act.
The police command in Kaduna condemned the mob action and announced the arrest of suspects in connection with the incident, saying that investigations continue.
(NAN)
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