JUNGLE JUSTICE PHENOMENON IN NIGERIA: A RETROGRESSIVE DESCENT TO THE STATE OF NATURE

Abstract

Jungle justice, that despicable social malaise which was the defining feature of the society in the erstwhile state of nature has resurrected. This time, it is   used mostly in Africa both in the villages and in big cities without hearing from the suspect as if it is the only means of serving justice to the accused persons. Through a doctrinal approach and the engagement of content analysis, the paper found that jungle justice has become a disturbing affliction ravaging the Nigerian society. It is a total repudiation of the rule of law, modern civilisation and a repugnant violation of the dignity of mankind. The paper also found that the bestial act is perpetrated by the materially poor in the society as a result of broken security system and the negative perception of the judiciary. To mitigate this pseudo form of justice, the paper recommended overwhelming reforms of the judicial system and that of the security agencies in order to restore the confidence of the populace. Mass sensetisation of the people is also recommended to alert them to the inherent evils of jungle justice in recognition of the global dominant pulse in human rights.