The Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar has reiterated his resolve to protect the rights of every Nigerian citizen to the Fundamental Right of fair hearing, insisting that no one is guilty except a law court of competent jurisdiction expressly says so.
He has therefore 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.
According to Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, the IGP warned 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.
Abubakar expressed deep concern 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, warning citizens to desist from such reprehensible acts.
The IGP said the Force was 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.
