A shocking incident unfolded in Lapai town, the administrative center of Lapai Local Government Area in Niger State, where a man named Sani was reportedly lynched by an enraged mob.
The circumstances surrounding the event have raised alarm and prompted discussions about vigilantism and mob justice.
According to Abdullahi Yahaya, a local resident, the incident occurred on a Friday around 1 pm. The suspect, Sani, was allegedly apprehended while in the company of two young girls.
The mob’s anger quickly escalated, leading to the tragic outcome of the suspect being burnt to death.
Niger State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident, shedding light on the reasons behind the mob’s actions.
The suspect was accused of kidnapping a baby in the vicinity of a burial ground in Lapai. In response to this report, the DPO of Lapai mobilized a patrol team to the scene.
However, by the time the police arrived, the mob had already taken matters into their own hands.
The mob, wielding dangerous weapons such as cutlasses, had severely beaten the suspect, leaving him in a critical condition.
They proceeded to set him ablaze, causing him to be burnt beyond recognition.
Efforts to rescue the suspect and extinguish the fire proved futile. Ultimately, the body was transported to General Hospital Lapai.
This tragic incident underscores the complexities of mob justice and raises concerns about the rule of law and due process.
The situation highlights the need for effective law enforcement and public awareness campaigns to prevent such acts of violence and ensure that justice is pursued through legitimate channels.