Women Lawyers Congress condemns Kaduna mob killing, seeks probe of Kano student’s death

The Women Lawyers Congress has condemned the mob killing of a woman in Maraban Jos, Kaduna State, and called for a thorough investigation into the death of 13-year-old Maimuna Salisu, a student of St. Louis Secondary School, Kano.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Chairperson, Barrister Nafisa Abba Ismail, the Congress expressed concern over the two incidents, describing them as developments that raise serious questions about the protection of human rights, access to justice, and the safety of women and children.

The Congress condemned the lynching of a woman accused of child theft in Maraban Jos, Kaduna State, noting that reports indicated she was initially rescued by police officers and taken into protective custody before an angry mob allegedly overpowered security personnel, dragged her out of custody, killed her and set her body ablaze.

Barrister Nafisa further expressed concern over allegations circulating in the public domain that the victim may have been exposed to greater danger while in custody, including claims that her hijab was removed and that actions taken by security personnel may have compromised her safety.

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While noting that such allegations remain subject to official verification, the Women Lawyers Congress called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police and other relevant authorities to conduct a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the incident, including the conduct of officers involved.

The Congress maintained that no allegation, regardless of its nature, could justify jungle justice, stressing that every citizen is entitled to the presumption of innocence, fair hearing and protection under the law.

“The gruesome killing of the woman represents a grave violation of her fundamental human rights and an assault on the rule of law,” the statement said.

On the death of Maimuna Salisu, the Congress said it was deeply disturbed by conflicting accounts surrounding the circumstances that led to the death of the teenager, whose family has petitioned the police alleging possible foul play.

According to the statement, the varying narratives regarding the student’s final moments have generated legitimate public concern and underscore the need for a thorough, impartial and credible investigation.

The Women Lawyers Congress therefore called on the Kano State Government, the Kano State Police Command, the Ministry of Education and all relevant authorities to urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding the student’s death and ensure that justice is served.

The group stated that any individual or institution found culpable after due investigation should be held accountable in accordance with the law.

Barrister Nafisa reiterated the Congress’ commitment to the protection of women, children and other vulnerable members of society, stressing that every Nigerian deserves dignity, safety and equal access to justice regardless of gender, age, religion or social status.

She urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid speculation while allowing relevant authorities to carry out their investigations.

The Chairperson reiterated that justice must be rooted in truth, due process and the rule of law, adding that accountability remains essential to strengthening public confidence in the nation’s institutions.