The aftermath of the tragic lynching of 16 hunters in Uromi, Edo State, continues to unfold as authorities pledge swift justice for the victims.
Abba Yusuf, governor of Kano State has reaffirmed his call for a public parade of the suspects and compensation for the families of the victims, as 14 individuals arrested in connection with the killings are set to be transferred to Abuja for further interrogation.
Governor Yusuf made the demand during a condolence visit by his Edo counterpart, Governor Monday Okpebholo, at the Kano Government House. The visit comes just days after the hunters, who were accused of being kidnappers, were brutally murdered and burned by a mob on Saturday. The victims were on their way back from Port Harcourt when they were intercepted by a vigilante group in Uromi, leading to their deaths.
Addressing the situation, Yusuf described the killings as deeply disturbing, stressing that such acts are contrary to the fundamental principles of Nigerian society, which values human life. He further emphasised that security measures are in place to prevent any potential reprisals.
“We urge that those arrested be publicly paraded to bring relief to the victims’ families and to ensure accountability,” Governor Yusuf said.
Read also: Kano Governor calls for public parade of suspects in hunters’ lynching
Governor Okpebholo, who also condemned the attack, expressed his sadness over the incident and pledged full support to the affected families. He assured that investigations were progressing and that the perpetrators would face the full force of the law.
“The President has directed the IGP to ensure swift justice,” Okpebholo said, reaffirming that security agencies are actively working on the case.
Meanwhile, Governor Yusuf has received assurances from President Bola Tinubu, who swiftly directed law enforcement agencies to pursue the culprits.
Okpebholo also commended the actions of the Kano governor, acknowledging the importance of unity and swift intervention. “I extend my condolences to the people of Kano and reassure them that justice will prevail,” Okpebholo said.
No riot in Edo, says police
As investigations continue, Edo State Police Command has debunked rumors of riots in Uromi and reemphasised the state government’s commitment to peace. A senior officer confirmed that no violence was ongoing in the region and that 14 suspects had already been arrested. “We urge the public to disregard false reports,” the officer added.
Several prominent leaders have condemned the actions of the vigilante group, including the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, who described the killings as senseless and urged authorities to ensure justice is served.
In response to the incident, the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria has called for more rigorous oversight of local security structures, emphasising the importance of professionalism and respect for human rights within community policing initiatives.
Read also: Okpebholo suspends security chief, bans unregistered vigilantes after 16 hunters killed
The Esan Descendants Assembly (EDA) also voiced its deep sorrow, denouncing the killings and distancing the broader Esan community from the violence. The group highlighted the persistent insecurity in Uromi, underscoring the need for government action to address rising criminal activity.
International organisations, such as the Global Peace Foundation-Nigeria, have joined in the condemnation of the lynching, urging authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.
With the investigation underway, all eyes are on the authorities to ensure that justice is delivered for the victims and that such tragedies are not repeated.
Governor Okpebholo’s pledge to support the families of the deceased and the continued efforts of both state and federal authorities offer a glimmer of hope for justice, while the people of Uromi and beyond await the outcomes of the ongoing investigation.
