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THE Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the rising cases of mob violence, lynchings, torture and sexual assaults across the country, urging authorities to prosecute perpetrators to halt what it described as a growing culture of lawlessness.
The association said the increasing resort to jungle justice was undermining constitutional democracy, eroding the rule of law and replacing lawful justice with criminal anarchy.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA expressed concern over recent incidents in Plateau, Enugu and Rivers states.
According to the group, the incidents reflect a disturbing national trend in which suspected offenders are subjected to torture, sexual violence and extrajudicial killings without investigation or trial.
HURIWA cited the killing of Ibrahim Mbaya, a graduate of the University of Jos, who reportedly died after being assaulted by a mob over an allegation of stealing a mobile phone.
It also referred to an incident in Enugu State where a woman allegedly suffered mob torture, multiple sexual assaults and banishment after reportedly fleeing years of domestic violence.
The association further recalled the case in Rivers State where a female suspect accused of involvement in a “one-chance” robbery syndicate was allegedly stripped, sexually assaulted and publicly humiliated before security operatives intervened.
HURIWA stressed that no allegation of theft, robbery or any other offence could justify torture, rape, mob assault or extrajudicial killing.
It reminded Nigerians that Section 36 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to a fair hearing and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court.
The association described as disturbing the growing practice of stripping suspects naked, assaulting and humiliating them in public while recording the incidents for circulation on social media.
It said the trend reflected a dangerous erosion of societal values and increasing indifference to human suffering.
HURIWA called on the Inspector-General of Police to issue operational directives to all state commands for prompt intervention in reported cases of mob violence.
It also urged the police to identify, arrest and prosecute individuals captured in videos participating in mob attacks, sexual assaults and public torture.
The association appealed to the Attorneys-General of the Federation and the states to ensure diligent prosecution of suspects arrested in connection with such incidents.
It warned against situations where suspects are arrested following public outrage but cases are later abandoned.
HURIWA also urged the National Assembly and state legislatures to strengthen laws against mob violence, torture and extrajudicial punishment.
It said tougher penalties would deter offenders while ensuring justice, protection and rehabilitation for victims.
The association commended security agencies investigating some of the reported incidents but stressed that arrests must lead to transparent prosecution where evidence supports criminal liability.
It further called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, market associations and community leaders to intensify public enlightenment against jungle justice.
According to HURIWA, suspected offenders should always be handed over to law enforcement agencies instead of being subjected to mob punishment.
The association warned that failure to address the growing trend could institutionalise a culture where mobs assume the roles of judge, jury and executioner.
It maintained that the fight against crime must remain within the confines of the law, insisting that justice administered outside the legal system amounted to criminality.
F.O
Tags: HURIWA Mob justice