As the gruesome mob killing of 16 travelers of northern extraction in Uromi, Edo State, sparked nationwide outrage, with political leaders, human rights organisations, and community groups condemning the act and calling for justice, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has deployed a Deputy Inspector-General, to head investigations into the killings.
Egbetokun, in a statement from the Police Headquarters strongly condemned the violent mob action carried out against the travelers.
According to the police statement, the group of individuals, who were traveling in a truck and claimed to be hunters, were found in possession of nineteen (19) locally fabricated firearms when intercepted by the vigilantes, who were not satisfied with the excuse of being hunters to be in possession of such number of arms, concluded they were kidnappers.
“Regrettably, without allowing for due process or proper investigation into their claims, the vigilante group subjected some of them to unlawful mob justice, resulting in tragic consequences.
“In immediate response, the Edo State Police Command deployed operatives to the affected community, restoring law and order. So far, fourteen (14) suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, while a manhunt has been launched for other perpetrators involved in the mob action.
“The IGP has directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), DIG Sadiq Abubakar, to take over the case and ensure a thorough, impartial, and expedited investigation. He assured the public that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding the rule of law and will not tolerate any form of unlawful killings or extrajudicial actions under any guise.
“The IGP further appeals for calm and urges members of the public to cooperate fully with the investigation. He emphasized that anyone found culpable will be made to face the full weight of the law.
“Additionally, while condemning the resort to jungle justice, the Nigeria Police Force reiterates that the unlawful possession of firearms remains a criminal offense under Nigerian law. Individuals in possession of unlicensed firearms are advised to report to the nearest police station to surrender such weapons or initiate the appropriate licensing process.
“The Force warns the public to desist from taking the law into their hands and encourages the prompt reporting of suspicious activities to lawful authorities,” the police statement said.
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo reacted to the incident, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable. He vowed that the perpetrators would face justice.
Speaking in Uromi through the Chief Security Officer of Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, the governor said he visited the community to assess the situation and ensure a thorough investigation is conducted to prevent a recurrence.
“No one has the right to take another person’s life,” Okpebholo warned. “The nature of this barbaric killing is deeply concerning to the government.”
He assured that those responsible would be held accountable and confirmed that four suspects had already been arrested.
“I can assure you that those involved in this unprovoked attack will not go scot-free, as His Excellency has directed the Commissioner of Police to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter,” he added.
The governor also urged calm, assuring law-abiding residents, particularly the Hausa community, that security forces had been deployed to maintain peace and normalcy in Uromi.
President Bola Tinubu expressed shock over the gruesome killings and directed the police and other security agencies to conduct a swift and thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
He extended his condolences to the victims’ families and assured them that criminals would not be allowed to shed innocent blood without consequences.
“Jungle justice has no place in Nigeria,” the President stated, emphasizing that all Nigerians have the right to move freely across the country.
Tinubu also commended Governor Okpebholo and Uromi community leaders for their prompt response in preventing further escalation of tension.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the incident as unfortunate and demanded a transparent investigation to ensure justice.
“I am deeply saddened by reports of the tragic killing of some hunters in Edo State. My heartfelt condolences go out to their families and loved ones. This unfortunate incident demands a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation to uncover the truth and ensure those responsible are brought to book,” he said in a social media post.
He urged authorities to act swiftly to prevent further instances of jungle justice and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s security institutions.
Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin strongly condemned the brutal murder, calling it an act of barbarism. He urged security agencies to swiftly apprehend and prosecute those responsible.
Barau emphasized the need for unity among Nigerians, stressing that such incidents threaten national progress and development.
● Additional report by PRNigeria.
