I strongly condemn the abduction of our colleague, Rukayyat Mustafa, on Sunday, 26th May 2024. She was taken from her residence in Bado, Sokoto by suspected bandits around 1:00 AM. Ferdinand Okotete, a Notary Public and the Principal Partner of the law firm where Rukayyat is employed confirmed the incident. The assailants abducted her to an unknown location, leaving her family and colleagues in distress.
This event follows my recent call for improved security after the murder of Mr. Awa Peter Awa in Anambra and the abduction of Mr. Rolland Ipuole in Calabar. Attacks on legal practitioners highlight the urgent need to address the broader insecurity in our country.
Rukayyat is a dedicated lawyer known for her commitment to justice. Her abduction is an attack on the rule of law and our profession.
I urge authorities to ensure her safe release and bring the perpetrators to justice. The state must take decisive action against such criminalities. Enough is enough. Law enforcement must show their commitment to citizens’ safety. Criminal elements have made some areas lawless and dangerous. The state must act to protect us and eradicate these threats.
I demand a swift investigation and call on the Sokoto State Police Command and other security agencies to expedite efforts to apprehend the culprits and secure Rukayyat’s release.
I also call on the government to enhance security measures to protect citizens. Lawyers as well as other persons are increasingly becoming very vulnerable in the face of seemingly unrelenting violent attacks, kidnappings, and other forms of criminalities. Ensuring the safety of citizens especially those who work for peace and order in our society should be paramount to maintaining the rule of law and public confidence in our judicial system.
My thoughts and prayers are with Rukayyat and her family during this difficult time.