24/09/2026
Today's webinar discussion on "The Dangers of Increased Mob Violence in Nigeria: Exploring the Drivers, Consequences and Solutions for a Safer, More Just Society" brought together voices from law enforcement, civil society and community stakeholders to examine the factors driving mob violence and what can be done to address it. Among the key drivers identified were poverty, prejudice, weak accountability, lack of trust in security institutions, poor communication between citizens and the police, and socioeconomic frustrations.
One powerful message from Kiyenpiya F.M. Mafuyai stood out:
"The life of a person does not equal the cost/price of a product."
She further reminded participants that murder remains murder, even when committed by a crowd. The belief that anonymity within a crowd protects the law is misplaced. Individual responsibility does not disappear because an offence is committed collectively.
Olabisi Atanda noted that mob violence is often anger-driven, with socioeconomic conditions influencing participation. She also highlighted the challenge of communities protecting perpetrators, sometimes even when they should not.
Comrade Nelson Nnanna emphasised the importance of strengthening communication and trust between the police and communities, while also stressing the need for greater civic education, particularly in commercial areas where mob violence is prevalent. He also underscored the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
The conversation reinforced an important lesson: building safer communities requires more than policing alone. It requires trust, justice, civic education, responsive institutions, community leadership, accountability and a collective commitment to protecting human life.
Community leaders have a particularly important role in promoting tolerance, peaceful dispute resolution, and respect for the rule of law. No grievance, accusation or suspicion should become a justification for taking the law into one's own hands.
At CLEEN Foundation, we remain committed to strengthening justice and security institutions, promoting community engagement and supporting approaches that advance safer communities and a more peaceful Nigeria.
The size of a crowd must never determine justice. The rule of law must protect every life.