From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
A humanitarian group, the House of Justice has urged Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, the Commissioner of Police, the Attorney General of Kaduna State, and all security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the brutal killing of its staff member, Samuel Kelechi Emmanuel, are brought to justice.
During a solemn candlelight service held at the House of Justice Complex in Kaduna yesterday, colleagues, family, friends, and associates gathered to honor the late Emmanuel, whose tragic death has left the organization and the wider community in mourning.
The organization described Emmanuel’s death, fondly known as “Big Sam,” as a devastating loss. House of Justice noted that he initially joined the institution as a volunteer six years ago and became an indispensable team member.
It added that his sudden and violent death is not only a personal loss to his family and colleagues but also a significant blow to the cause of justice in Nigeria.
“Sam joined us initially as a volunteer six years ago. In no time, he became a permanent fixture on the House of Justice team.
“ For Sam’s mother, she has lost her only and beloved son. For his congregants at Living Faith, Karji-Kaduna, an under-shepherd has gone home.
“For us at the House of Justice and members of the Justice family, a committed soldier of justice, who did not have to die, has been lost,” the statement read.
The House of Justice confirmed that Emmanuel was attacked in the safety of his home by assailants who cut short what should have been another day of life and service. The organization emphasized its duty to pursue justice.
“The House of Justice calls on Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, the Commissioner of Police, the Attorney General of Kaduna State, and all security agents to ensure that the killers of Sam are brought to justice.
“We demand that thorough investigations are conducted to uphold the full weight of the law and to prevent the needless loss of precious lives in Kaduna State and throughout the country,” the statement declared.
The tribute to Emmanuel highlighted his immense contributions to justice, humanitarian causes, and community service.
He played key roles in establishing HOJ Radio/TV, the IDP-SKARF School for displaced children, and in the successful execution of the organization’s annual summits and banquets.
Described as the “glue” that held the House of Justice offices in Kaduna, Abuja, and Jos together, Emmanuel was praised for his selflessness, loyalty, and tireless commitment to the vision of justice.
Colleagues recalled that his last assignment was overseeing the recruitment and onboarding of the team at the Jos office. Gloria Mabeiam Ballason, CEO of House of Justice and Principal Partner at MIVE LEGALS (Ballason Chambers), who delivered the tribute, expressed personal gratitude for Emmanuel’s sacrifices, prayers, and unwavering support.
“Big Sam, the City you shall ascend to is one whose Builder and Maker is the Lord, and you shall cease from all struggles for the strife is over. We who endure this deep pain from your gruesome murder will not rest until we find justice for you”, she concluded.
The service ended with a renewed call for security agencies to act swiftly to apprehend the perpetrators of the crime, as mourners vowed to continue demanding justice in memory of Samuel Kelechi Emmanuel.
