President Bola Tinubu and several state governors have strongly condemned the brutal killing of 16 travelers by an angry mob in Uromi, Edo State. The President has ordered a manhunt for those responsible, while governors across the country demand justice for the victims.
Deadly Case of Mistaken Identity
Reports indicate that the victims, who claimed to be hunters, were traveling in a Dangote Cement truck when they were stopped by local security in Udune Efandion around 1:30 p.m. Upon searching the vehicle, vigilantes discovered dane guns, triggering a violent mob attack.
A distressing video circulating on social media captured the horrific scene, with victims pleading for their lives before being beaten and set ablaze. Shockingly, some residents appeared indifferent, going about their activities as the violence unfolded.
An eyewitness, identified only as John, stated that the travelers were mistaken for kidnappers. “The vigilantes raised an alarm after finding weapons. People are frustrated by frequent kidnappings in the area, but they should have handed them over to the police instead,” he said.
The gruesome video also showed a resident using a wheelbarrow to throw one of the victims into the fire, while another voice in the background mocked the dying travelers.
A local resident, speaking anonymously, blamed the police for their delayed response. “Had they arrived earlier, this could have been prevented. By the time they came, only four people could be rescued and were rushed to a hospital.”
Police Confirm 16 Deaths, Arrest 14 Suspects
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects linked to the mob killing. Spokesperson Moses Yamu announced that emergency meetings had been held with community leaders to prevent further unrest.
Yamu disclosed that security forces, including the Police Mobile Force, have been deployed to restore order. He cautioned against any further reprisals or unlawful gatherings that could escalate tensions.
Providing details of the incident, Yamu stated, “A truck with registration number KKF 225 XA, coming from Port Harcourt with 25 travelers, was stopped by a local vigilante group in Uromi. Some of the passengers were found with locally-made guns, prompting an alarm that led to the mob attack. Sixteen individuals were lynched, while the truck was set on fire.”
He added that ten travelers were rescued by police officers who rushed to the scene, two of whom sustained severe injuries and are receiving medical treatment.
Tinubu, Governors Order Swift Investigation
President Tinubu expressed shock over the incident, ordering security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice. “Jungle justice has no place in Nigeria. Every Nigerian has the right to move freely without fear,” a statement from the Presidency read.
The Northern Governors’ Forum also condemned the killings, calling it a grave violation of human rights. Gombe State Governor and Forum Chairman, Muhammadu Yahaya, described the attack as a serious threat to the rule of law and urged authorities to act decisively.
“We must ensure such barbaric acts do not go unpunished. Nigerians should be able to travel freely without fear of intimidation or violence,” Yahaya stated.
Atiku, Okpebholo, Obi Demand Justice
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar called for an impartial investigation, emphasizing that protecting lives must remain a top priority.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, condemned the attack as “barbaric and vicious.” His Chief Security Officer, SP Solomon Osaghale, assured that a full-scale investigation is underway, with several arrests already made.
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, described the killings as “deeply saddening,” stressing the need for a justice system that upholds the rule of law. “Mob justice threatens societal stability,” he warned.
Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso also expressed concern, calling the incident “a horrifying display of mob injustice.”
Arewa Youths, Hausa Community Express Outrage
The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum decried the killings, calling for a swift investigation. President General Yerima Shetima labeled it “a horrifying act fueled by false accusations and ignorance.”
The leader of the Hausa community in Uromi, Mallam Aliyu Haruna, thanked the Edo State government for deploying security personnel to the area, which he said helped restore calm. “This is the first time such a thing has happened here. We have lived peacefully in this community for over 70 years.”
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