The Kano State Government has expressed deep satisfaction with the swift and decisive actions taken by the Edo State Government in response to the recent killing of 16 hunters, hailing the arrests of 14 suspects and the disbandment of a local vigilante group allegedly involved in the attack.
This was disclosed by the Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam, following a high-powered delegation’s visit to Uromi, where the tragic incident occurred.
“We took almost two hours to travel from Benin to Uromi, and we were received by a huge and welcoming crowd. What we met on ground was very encouraging,” Abdussalam said, commending the peaceful coexistence between the Hausa community and other ethnic nationalities in the area.
He emphasized that both political, religious, and traditional leaders in Uromi and across Edo State had strongly condemned the killings and voiced their total rejection of such violent acts.
“This very tragic incident has been condemned in strong terms. The traditional leadership was very outspoken, as was the religious leadership. They have shown that they are united against what happened,” he said.
Deputy Governor Abdussalam also praised the Edo State Government for taking steps to de-escalate tensions, ensure justice, and restore confidence among residents and the affected communities.
“The government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Edo remains a place where people from all parts of the country — especially from the North and Kano — can live in peace and conduct their lawful businesses,” he noted.
He confirmed that 14 suspects have already been arrested, with others declared wanted by security agencies. Governor Pastor Monday Okpebholo, he added, has disbanded the vigilante group involved in the attack and has called for the transfer of the state’s Commissioner of Police.
“There will be compensation for the victims — both those who lost their lives and those who lost property. The victims were returning from Port Harcourt with goods and personal items, all of which were destroyed when their vehicle was burnt,” Abdussalam said.
He concluded by emphasizing the commitment of both states to national unity, peace, and justice, adding, “Nigeria shall continue to be one.”
