JUNGLE JUSTICE, A DECADENCE TO NIGERIA JUSTICE SYSTEM

Jungle justice is a form of system whereby an alleged lawbreaker is brutally inflicted pain on and sometimes killed in the process without the involvement of the right authorities.

This practice is usually influenced as a result of lack of trust or confidence in the country’s justice system.

The practice is prominent in some parts of West Africa, clearly visible in Nigeria.

As a result of this practice innocent persons have found themselves in such a position while accused of such crime but were already killed before truth prevailed.

Although the citizens or mob feelings towards a situation of the inflicted crime is valid, we can not help but notice what the practice is doing to the criminal justice system in the country.

DNI’s correspondent in an interview with some residents of a place in Ijebu North,  Ogun State where Jungle justice was indulged in recently.

One of the residents claims that thieves have really inflicted pain on the residents of the area by going away with their hard earned properties and the only way the residents feel fulfilled is by catching them and inflicting pain back through “jungle justice”.

Reviewing what the practices have done to the country’s system, Jungle justice has a destructive impact on the country’s development— although such occurrence is inevitable but it must be addressed.

The practice has led to human rights abuses, impede economic development, and hinder efforts to achieve a stable and just society. 

EFFECTS OF JUNGLE JUSTICE TO THE SOCIETY

• Degrading the Rule of Law: Vigilantism undermines the legal system.
• Eroding Public Trust: Mob justice can lead to mistrust in institutions.
• Abuse of Human Rights: Vigilante actions often violate human rights.
• Rise in Crime Involvement: Jungle justice can escalate violence.
• Hindrance to Sustainable Development Goal 16: Undermining peace, justice, and strong institutions.

STRATEGIES TO COMBAT JUNGLE JUSTICE

• Strengthen Formal Justice Systems: Ensure accessible, efficient, and effective legal institutions.
• Public Awareness and Education: Educate communities about the dangers of vigilantism and importance of rule of law.
• Community Engagement: Foster dialogue and build trust between communities and law enforcement.
• Law Enforcement Capacity Building: Train and equip law enforcement agencies to respond effectively.
• Address Socio-Economic Issues: Address underlying factors like poverty, inequality, and unemployment.
• Promote Alternative Dispute Resolution: Encourage alternative methods like mediation and arbitration.
• Hold Vigilantes Accountable: Prosecute those who engage in jungle justice.
• Collaboration and Partnerships: Foster partnerships between government, civil society, and community leaders.

Margret Oshinowo  | June 29, 2025