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 was made during a Night of Tribute organized in Chigbo’s honor by GAFA on Friday in Abuja.
Ms. Maureen Chigbo, the deceased’s younger sister, described her death as “tragic and devastating” and urged authorities to ensure justice is served. She revealed that, as an investigative journalist, her sister had accessed suspects’ statements and noticed discrepancies with actual facts, highlighting contradictions that must be resolved in the investigation.
“We are not dealing with suppositions. A homicide investigation must examine all loopholes to establish the truth. My sister fought for justice and advocated for the poor. 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.
She recounted that Chigbo had attended evening Mass and spoke to her before receiving a distress call, followed by threats from unidentified persons. Maureen urged legal professionals and stakeholders to support a thorough investigation and ensure the perpetrators are prosecuted.
“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 added.
Mrs. Chinelo Iriele, GAFA International President, described Chigbo as a devoted colleague and former International Secretary of the association. Iriele called on authorities to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators fully, emphasizing that accountability is essential to deter future crimes.
“We demand that the perpetrators be exposed and face full consequences. Accountability is necessary to curb recurring violence in our society,” she said.
Mrs. Chigozie Eruchalu, Principal Partner at Goziem Chambers, described the death as “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 that is “fully transparent and without delay.”
Legal practitioners, media professionals, and notable personalities attended the tribute to honor the late lawyer.
