Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has strongly condemned the killing of several individuals in the Uromi area of the state and has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident.
The victims, reportedly travelers, were allegedly killed on Thursday by vigilante members in Esan North East Local Government Area on suspicion of being criminals.
During a visit to the community on Friday, Governor Okpebholo described the attack as “barbaric” and directed the State Police Command and other security agencies to conduct a thorough and swift investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible.
In a statement by his spokesman, Fred Itua, the governor urged community members to cooperate with security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice. “There is no excuse for vigilante members to take the law into their hands without involving statutory law enforcement agencies,” the statement read.
Governor Okpebholo also commended community leaders, particularly the leadership of the Arewa community, for helping to de-escalate tensions and maintain peace in the area.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso have also condemned the killings and called for swift action. Atiku, in a post on X, expressed sadness over the incident, offering condolences to the victims’ families and urging authorities to conduct a transparent and impartial investigation.
“The protection of innocent lives must remain paramount, and I urge the authorities to act swiftly and decisively to prevent a recurrence of jungle justice. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done to restore public confidence in our security institutions,” Atiku wrote.
Kwankwaso also described the killings as “harrowing”, calling them “another sad reminder of the barbarity of jungle justice.” He urged authorities to launch a full-scale investigation and ensure the perpetrators face justice.
“While praying for the repose of the victims, I extend my condolences to their families, the Kano State Government, and other affected states,” Kwankwaso said.
