The lynching of Malama Ummulkhairi Usman in Maraban Jos, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, over unverified allegations of attempted child theft has renewed calls for an end to mob justice and greater accountability from security agencies.
The editorial condemned the killing, stressing that no allegation or public anger justifies taking a life without due process. It also raised concerns over claims that a Divisional Police Officer handed the victim over to the mob, urging a transparent investigation and prosecution of any officer found culpable.
Authorities have charged 41 suspects with culpable homicide and 30 with unlawful assembly, while 41 others remain under investigation. Seventeen people were released after investigators found no evidence linking them to the crime.
The piece highlighted the broader trend of mob violence, citing reports that more than 60 people were killed and over 20 assaulted by mobs between June and December 2025. Since January 2026, 27 more people have reportedly been killed and six assaulted in similar attacks, mostly triggered by allegations of theft, robbery, child abduction or blasphemy.
It called for sustained public awareness campaigns, stronger civic education, improved policing, judicial reforms and swift, transparent justice to restore public confidence and curb jungle justice.
