ARTICLES

Seeking Justice for Uduak Adams: Ending Vigilante Violence

MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN

Published

7 months ago

September 24, 2023

Stella Charles Akupue

In Nigeria, the sanctity of life is a fundamental principle that should apply to every citizen, including legal practitioners who dedicate their lives to upholding the law. Sadly, the country has witnessed a disturbing trend where individuals are subjected to mob justice, often resulting in loss of life.

These incidents vary from minor allegations to heinous crimes, with individuals rarely allowed to defend themselves before they face brutal and irreversible consequences at the hands of a self-proclaimed judge and jury. Also Read: https://legalattorneyblog.com/2023/09/11/former-boko-haram-member-arrested-in-connection-with-ex-wifes-murder/

One recent victim of this alarming vigilante justice is our fellow lawyer, Uduak Adams. She found herself on the brink of a life-threatening ordeal when a mob falsely accused her of child kidnapping. This tragic incident unfolded when she ventured into a neighbourhood searching for accommodation, only to be unjustly labelled as a kidnapper.

According to reports shared on Facebook by Arthur Amadi, Uduak Adams was falsely accused of abducting a child. In a horrifying turn of events, she became the target of a vicious mob, which unleashed a barrage of violence upon her. Also Read: https://legalattorneyblog.com/2023/09/16/congratulations-to-the-newly-inaugurated-leadership-of-the-young-lawyers-forum-nba-okehi-branch/

She endured merciless flogging with a koboko (horsewhip), sustained blows from planks, and took punches and kicks. The result was severe and grievous bodily injuries that scarred her physically and emotionally.

This disturbing incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need to address the issue of mob justice in Nigeria. No individual, regardless of their profession or background, should be subjected to such brutality without the opportunity to prove their innocence through legal means. It underscores the importance of upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and due process in a society that aspires to be just and equitable. Also Read: https://legalattorneyblog.com/2023/09/11/mazi-afam-osigwe-san-joins-legal-luminaries-at-valedictory-court-session-in-honor-of-justice-amina-adamu-augie-jsc-rtd/

In the wake of this harrowing incident, there is a collective call to action to seek justice for Uduak Adams. It is imperative that those responsible for her suffering are identified, apprehended, and brought to justice through the proper legal channels. The rule of law must prevail, and those who take the law into their own hands must be held accountable for their actions.

Additionally, this incident should serve as a catalyst for broader conversations about the state of law enforcement, access to justice, and the need for educational campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of mob justice. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders, including the legal community, civil society, and the government, to work together to prevent such tragic incidents from recurring.

In the quest for justice, it is essential to remember that every life, including Uduak Adams’, deserves protection, dignity, and the right to a fair and just legal process. Together, we can strive for a society where mob justice is replaced by the rule of law and where the rights and safety of all citizens, especially those who dedicate themselves to upholding the law, are maintained and respected.