The Global Association of Female Attorneys (GAFA) has called on relevant authorities to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the abduction and murder of one of its pioneer members, Princess Mediatrix Nwamaka-Chigbo.
Mrs Chinelo Iriele, GAFA’s International President, made the call in a statement following Nwamaka-Chigbo’s killing on January 5.
Iriele described the deceased as a devoted, creative, and highly committed colleague, as well as a founding member of GAFA and its former International Secretary.
“She was passionate about humanity and actively participated in all GAFA initiatives, including pro bono legal representation for indigent persons, mediation exercises, and visits to orphanages.
“She also engaged in school outreach programmes focused on the girl child, and took part in public engagements such as talk shows and seminars on money laundering, security, human relations, and social development,” she said.
She described the incident as a “tragic and painful” loss, noting that Nwamaka-Chigbo was abducted and later murdered on the same day, while her sister was reportedly on the phone with her at the onset of the incident.
Lamenting the rising cases of insecurity and loss of lives, Iriele urged the government and security agencies to ensure justice, emphasizing that accountability is essential to deterring future acts of violence.
“Nigerians deserve leadership that prioritizes their peaceful existence and upholds the sanctity of human life. May our leaders use their offices wisely, responsibly, and humanely for the collective good of citizens,” she added.
Nwamaka-Chigbo was a former treasurer of the FCT branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, a member of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, and former President of the Catholic Lawyers Association, Abuja.
An ardent Catholic, she authored a book on the Infant Jesus and, until her death, served as Vice President of the Infant Jesus Association. She was also an active member of the Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Group and other religious organizations.
