The family of slain lawyer, Mediatrix Chigbo, and the Global Association of Female Attorneys (GAFA) have called for a thorough investigation into her murder.
The appeal came during a Night of Tribute organised in Chigbo’s honour by GAFA on Friday in Abuja.
Ms Maureen Chigbo, the deceased’s younger sister, described her death as tragic and devastating, urging authorities to ensure justice is served.
Maureen, a former President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, said she interviewed the suspects while seeking justice as an investigative journalist.
She revealed discrepancies between suspects’ statements and actual facts, highlighting contradictions that must be resolved during the investigation.
“We are not dealing with suppositions. A homicide investigation must examine all loopholes to establish the truth.
“Why insist on this? My sister fought for justice, advocated for the poor, and we will not let her struggle be in vain.
“We want justice for her and for humanity, so the dead can rest and the living live in peace,” Maureen Chigbo said.
Maureen explained that the deceased attended evening Mass and spoke to her sister before a distress call, followed by threats from unidentified persons.
She urged legal professionals and stakeholders to support a thorough investigation and ensure perpetrators are prosecuted, to serve as a deterrent to others.
“Join us to uncover who kidnapped and murdered my sister. This is homicide. The investigation cannot be sloppy or superficial.
“She dedicated her life to the poor and pro bono cases. Justice is the standard, and justice is what she must receive,” she said.
Mrs Chinelo Iriele, GAFA International President, described Chigbo as a devoted colleague and former International Secretary of the association.
Iriele urged authorities to investigate, apprehend, and prosecute the perpetrators fully, saying accountability is essential to deter future crimes.
“We demand perpetrators be exposed and face full consequences. Accountability is necessary to curb recurring violence in our society,” she added.
Mrs Chigozie Eruchalu, Principal Partner at Goziem Chambers, called the death “a chilling reminder of the risks citizens face daily.”
Prof. Uwakwe Abugu, Director-General of the Institute of Medical and Health Law, said Chigbo, inducted in 2022, deserves justice fully, transparently, and without delay.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that legal practitioners, media professionals, and notable personalities attended the tribute to honour the late lawyer. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
