A man was brutally beaten by a group of individuals in Onitsha, Anambra State, after being accused of stealing money. The incident, captured in a video circulating on Facebook, shows the suspect pleading his innocence, swearing on the lives of his mother and siblings that he did not commit the theft.
Victim Confirmed Innocent After Assault
The chairman of Human Rights Defenders (HURIDE) Ebonyi State chapter, Sampson Iko Nweke, who shared the video, confirmed that the man was later found not to have stolen any money. Nweke expressed deep concern over the prevalence of jungle justice in Nigeria, urging the victim to seek legal redress immediately.
Call to End Jungle Justice
“See what Igbo brothers did to a fellow brother over a mere unverified accusation of theft,” Nweke wrote. “Now, it has been confirmed the guy didn't steal the money after receiving this level of jungle treatment. Stop jungle justice especially over minor issues. Treat others the way you would like to be treated. This guy must seek redress immediately. Who knows him, please?”
The incident highlights the dangers of mob action and the urgent need for public awareness against extrajudicial punishments in Nigeria.
