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.

The deceased’s younger sister, Maureen Chigbo, described her death as tragic and devastating, urging authorities to ensure justice is served.

Ms Chigbo, a former president of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, said she accessed suspects’ statements while seeking justice as an investigative journalist.

She noted discrepancies between suspects’ statements and actual facts, highlighting contradictions that must be resolved during the investigation.

She said, “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.’’

She explained 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 that the perpetrators were prosecuted as a deterrent.

Mrs Chigbo stated, “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.’’

GAFA International President, Chinelo Iriele, described the late Chigbo as a devoted colleague and former international secretary of the association.

Ms 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.

Principal Partner at Goziem Chambers, Chigozie Eruchalu, described the death as “a chilling reminder of the risks citizens face daily.”

The Director-General of the Institute of Medical and Health Law, Uwakwe Abugu, said Chigbo, inducted in 2022, deserves justice fully, transparently, and without delay.

The legal practitioners, media professionals, and notable personalities attended the tribute in honour of the late lawyer.

(NAN)