Key stakeholders in Ebonyi State, including the Police, have voiced concerns about the rise of jungle justice across Nigeria. They have urged citizens to stop engaging in illegal acts of retribution and to follow proper legal procedures when dealing with suspected criminals.
The appeal was made at a Town Hall meeting in Abakaliki on Thursday, held as part of the lead-up to National Police Day celebrations on April 7. The event, with the theme “Police and the Community: Strengthening Cooperation for Improved Service Delivery,” was attended by various community leaders, law enforcement, and civil society representatives.
During the meeting, Ebonyi State Police Commissioner, CP Anthonia Uche-Anya, condemned jungle justice, police extortion, harassment, and extrajudicial killings. Uche-Anya emphasized that no individual has the right to take another’s life and stressed the importance of citizens following due process to ensure justice.
On the issue of police misconduct, Uche-Anya reaffirmed the Police Force’s zero-tolerance policy toward extortion and warned officers to refrain from engaging in such illegal activities. She also reminded the public that police officers do not have the authority to search personal devices at checkpoints unless an individual is under formal investigation.
Nwanneka David, Ex-Officio of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Ebonyi chapter, also voiced concerns about the harassment of students by the police, noting that many are unjustly labeled as “Yahoo Boys.” David appealed for immediate intervention by the Commissioner to prevent further mistreatment of students.
Additionally, Chidi Igboji, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Ebonyi, called for regular training for law enforcement to improve professionalism within the force.
The meeting also saw Mr. Sunday Oketa, the Traditional Ruler of Nkaliki-Echara Unuhu Autonomous Community, emphasize the need for ongoing collaboration between the community and the police to enhance security efforts in the state.
Through these discussions, stakeholders aim to foster a more secure environment for citizens, ensuring that law enforcement practices are ethical and just.
Stay updated with Ebonyi News Network for real-time reports, in-depth analysis, and exclusive coverage of policies shaping Ebonyi State.
