A man has reportedly suffered severe injuries after a mob accused him of stealing money in Onitsha, Anambra State.
ONITSHA, ANAMBRA STATE — A man was allegedly beaten by unknown persons after being accused of stealing money in Onitsha, Anambra State. A video of the incident, which surfaced on Facebook, showed the suspect repeatedly swearing that he did not commit the alleged theft.
According to reports, the man swore on the lives of his mother and siblings while pleading his innocence during the assault. The incident has since generated reactions on social media, with many Nigerians condemning acts of mob justice and calling for proper investigations before accusations are made.
Sampson Iko Nweke, Chairman of the Human Rights Defenders, HURIDE, Ebonyi State chapter, who shared the video online, claimed that it was later confirmed that the man did not steal the money. In his post, he criticised the treatment meted out to the victim and urged Nigerians to avoid taking the law into their own hands.
Nweke wrote that the man suffered what he described as “jungle treatment” over an unverified allegation. He also called on anyone who knows the victim to assist him in seeking justice and redress over the incident.
Cases of mob attacks over allegations of theft and other offences have remained a concern in different parts of Nigeria. Human rights groups and security agencies have repeatedly warned against jungle justice, stressing that suspects should be handed over to the police for proper investigation and prosecution where necessary.
The development means renewed attention is likely to focus on the dangers of mob action and the need for stronger public awareness on respecting the rule of law. It also highlights the devastating consequences of acting on unverified accusations without allowing security agencies to carry out investigations.
