Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has called for the public parade of those arrested for the brutal killing of 16 hunters in Edo State, emphasizing the need for justice and compensation for the victims’ families. The call comes as 14 suspects have been transferred to Abuja for further interrogation.
The 16 hunters, who were traveling through Uromi in Edo State, were lynched by a mob that wrongly accused them of being kidnappers. The attack sparked outrage across the country, prompting swift intervention from state and federal authorities.
Governor Yusuf made his demand during a condolence visit by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, at the Kano Government House on Monday. He described the killings as a “cowardly act that contradicts the fundamental principles of our society” and called for those responsible to be held accountable.
Call for Justice and Compensation
Governor Yusuf stressed the importance of publicly parading the suspects to “bring relief to the victims’ families and ensure accountability.” He also urged Governor Okpebholo to provide fair compensation to the affected families.
Yusuf stated, “We value human life in this country, and such an attack should never happen again. We have taken strong security measures to prevent any form of reprisal attacks, and we trust that the Edo State government will ensure justice is served.”
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his prompt response, noting that the President had directed security agencies to track down and arrest those responsible.
Edo Governor Condemns Killings
Governor Okpebholo condemned the killings, describing them as “barbaric and unacceptable.” He reassured the people of Kano and the victims’ families that justice would be served.
He said, “I was deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. The President has already given security agencies a mandate to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Investigations are ongoing, and more arrests will be made.”
A statement by Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, revealed that some of the victims were from Bankura Local Government Area in Kano State.
Swift Response by Security Agencies
Following the killings, security agencies have intensified investigations. “So far, about 14 suspects have been arrested, and after the holiday, they will be transferred to Abuja for further interrogation,” Okpebholo confirmed. He assured that more arrests would follow as the probe continues.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the people of Uromi in rescuing some victims, stating that the attack should not be used to divide Nigerians. “This tragedy will not change our bond with the people of Edo,” he added.
Arewa and Edo Leaders Call for Unity
Leaders from both the Arewa community in Edo State and the Edo community in Kano have urged Nigerians to maintain peace.
Badamasi Saleh, representing the Arewa community in Edo, stated, “I was born and raised in Edo State, and we have always lived peacefully. This incident should not be used to smear the state’s image.”
Similarly, Fred Akhigbe, a leader of the Edo community in Kano, praised Okpebholo’s visit and called for unity. “We appreciate the swift actions taken by both state governments. We sympathize with the people of Kano and pray for the victims.”
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Senate President, Conference of Speakers Demand Accountability
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also condemned the attack, describing it as “a senseless act of violence that must not be tolerated in society.”
“I urge the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book,” Akpabio stated in a message released by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom.
The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria (CSSLN) also issued a statement calling for stricter oversight of community policing structures to prevent similar incidents. “This attack is a gross violation of human rights and a serious threat to peace and security,” CSSLN Chairman, Adebo Ogundoyin, said.
Police Dismiss Riot Rumors
Amid rising tensions, the Edo State Police Command has denied reports of riots in Uromi following the killings. A senior police officer, speaking anonymously, said “false claims are being spread to create unnecessary panic. The government is working closely with security agencies to maintain peace.”
The officer also dismissed a viral video purportedly showing Fulani herders regrouping for retaliation, calling it “fake news aimed at inciting violence.”
Nationwide Outrage and Government Commitment
The killings have sparked national outrage, with many calling for justice and an end to extrajudicial killings.
Governor Okpebholo assured the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, during a condolence visit that Edo State is committed to ensuring all perpetrators face the “full wrath of the law.”
“The President is not happy about this incident. The Inspector General of Police is personally overseeing the investigation. We have also set up a committee to support the families of the deceased,” Okpebholo added.
Senator Barau condemned the killings, stating, “This should never happen in a democracy. We must ensure that those responsible are brought to justice to prevent future occurrences.”