MULAN condemns Maraban Jos mob killing, seeks probe of security lapses

The Muslim Lawyers’ Association of Nigeria (MULAN), Kaduna Branch, has condemned the mob killing of a woman in Maraban Jos area of Kaduna State, describing the incident as a brutal act of jungle justice and calling for accountability for both perpetrators and any security lapses that may have contributed to the tragedy.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its Chairman, Awwal Shittu, and Secretary, Ibrahim Bawa, the association expressed shock over reports that the woman was attacked, killed and burnt following allegations of child stealing.

MULAN said the killing represented a grave violation of the victim’s constitutional right to life and warned against the growing trend of citizens taking the law into their own hands.

The association expressed concern over reports that the victim was allegedly removed from police custody before she was attacked by the mob.

According to the lawyers’ group, if the report is confirmed, it raises serious questions about the adequacy of protection provided to persons in lawful custody and the circumstances that led to the breach.

“The duty of law enforcement agencies is to protect lives, maintain law and order and ensure that suspects are subjected only to lawful investigation and prosecution.

“No person in police custody should be surrendered, directly or indirectly, to mob violence,” the statement said.

MULAN called for an immediate, transparent and comprehensive investigation into the incident and demanded the arrest and prosecution of all those involved.

It also urged authorities to investigate security personnel responsible for the victim’s custody and apply appropriate sanctions where negligence, misconduct or complicity is established.

The association commended the Kaduna State Police Command for announcing arrests in connection with the incident but insisted that justice must go beyond those physically present at the scene.

It said investigators should also examine whether actions or omissions by any officials contributed to the killing.

MULAN said it would closely monitor the investigation and prosecution process, adding that it remained committed to using lawful means to promote human rights, accountability and respect for the rule of law.

The group stressed that allegations of criminal conduct, regardless of their nature, do not justify mob action and reminded the public that every suspect remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.

It warned that mob justice weakens public trust in legal institutions and undermines societal security.

The association also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and prayed for justice and peace.

The killing has continued to attract public reactions after reports emerged that the woman was attacked in Maraban Jos over allegations of child theft.

Kaduna State Police Command had earlier condemned the incident and confirmed the arrest of suspects as investigations continue.