President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agencies to launch a manhunt for the killers of a group of northern hunters who were intercepted and murdered by local vigilantes in the Uromi community of Esan North Local Government Area of Edo State.
The hunter, enroute Kano from Port Harcourt, were intercepted by the mob, who accused them of being kidnappers and set them ablaze.
In a statement issued on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, his special adviser on Information and Strategy the president condemned the attack, describing it as a “dastardly act” and vowed that those responsible would face justice.
“The President, who expressed shock at the dastardly act on Thursday, directed Police and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and punish the suspected culprits,” the statement read.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured them that the government would not tolerate the shedding of innocent blood.
“Jungle justice has no place in Nigeria, and all Nigerians have the freedom to move freely in any part of the country,” he said, reaffirming the constitutional right of free movement for all citizens.
He also lauded Monday Okpebholo, the governor of Edo State and community leaders in Uromi for their prompt intervention to prevent further escalation of tensions in the area.
The incident has sparked outrage, with many calling for improved security measures to curb extrajudicial killings and ensure justice for the slain hunters.
