By Samuel Adeola
Nearly a year after the brutal killing of Ifeanyi Chukwu-Agah Benedict, popularly known as Abuja Area Mama (AAM), a coalition of human rights lawyers has filed a lawsuit against the Nigeria Police Force for allegedly failing to investigate the case.
AAM was attacked and murdered on August 8, 2024, by unknown assailants.
Her naked body was discovered along the Katampe-Mabushi Expressway in Abuja, sparking outrage among minority communities and human rights groups.
Minority Watch, a legal advocacy group, described the killing as a targeted attack linked to AAM’s gender identity and public profile.
“She was singled out either solely because of her identity or due to other undisclosed factors,” the group said.
Alongside two partner NGOs, Minority Watch petitioned the FCT Commissioner of Police immediately after the murder and again on February 12, 2025, demanding a thorough investigation. Despite acknowledgements of the petitions, the groups say no action has been taken.
“The refusal or neglect to investigate this heinous crime is not only unacceptable but also a further violation of AAM’s fundamental right to life,” said Chizelu Emejulu, Executive Director of Minority Watch.
In response, the group has filed a Fundamental Rights Enforcement suit (FHC/ABJ/CS/1584/2025) at the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking a declaration that police inaction violates constitutional protections. They are also asking the court to issue an order of mandamus compelling the police to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those responsible for the killing.
“The right to life is sacrosanct,” Emejulu stated. “Ignoring such a brutal crime sends a dangerous message that some lives don’t matter. We cannot allow that precedent.”
Human rights advocates say the case highlights systemic indifference toward violence against marginalized groups. The Federal High Court is expected to assign the case to a judge and announce a hearing date in the coming weeks.
