The Edo State Government vehemently refuted allegations made by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) concerning the compensation provided to families of victims in the Uromi killings. IPOB, a proscribed terrorist organization in Nigeria, had accused Governor Godwin Obaseki of allocating N6 billion to compensate “Fulani terrorists,” a claim the state government dismissed as baseless and malicious. The controversy stemmed from a tragic incident in March 2024 where 16 hunters from Kano State were lynched in Uromi, Edo State. Following the incident, Governor Obaseki visited Kano to condole with the families and prevent retaliatory attacks. A delegation from Kano State subsequently visited Edo to discuss compensation for the victims’ families. IPOB seized upon this interaction, twisting the facts to allege a massive payout to appease supposed terrorists, a narrative the Edo government categorically denied.
The Edo State Government’s response, issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, condemned IPOB’s statement as a blatant attempt to incite ethnic division and destabilize the state. Itua stressed that the alleged N6 billion compensation was entirely fictitious and a deliberate misrepresentation of the facts. He emphasized that the Governor’s visit to Kano and the subsequent discussions with the Kano State delegation were part of a broader effort to ensure peace and prevent escalation of violence, demonstrating the government’s commitment to justice and the well-being of all residents, regardless of their origin. The government further criticized IPOB for exploiting the Uromi tragedy to further its separatist agenda, which the Edo government unequivocally rejected.
The statement highlighted the malicious intent behind IPOB’s accusation, characterizing it as a calculated move to sow discord and disrupt the peace that characterizes Edo State. The government accused IPOB of using a well-worn tactic of spreading falsehoods and inciting hatred under the guise of activism. Itua underscored that the Edo State Government remained committed to maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all residents, irrespective of their ethnic or religious affiliations. He reiterated that the government would not tolerate any attempts to incite ethnic violence or disrupt the prevailing harmony within the state. The government’s stance reflected its commitment to upholding the values of unity, hospitality, and progress that Edo State is known for.
The Edo State Government further emphasized its rejection of IPOB’s attempts to import its violent ideology into the state. Itua described such efforts as “dead on arrival,” signifying the government’s resolve to resist any attempts to destabilize the region. The statement also called on security agencies to investigate the origins of the inciting publication and to hold those responsible accountable. This call to action underscored the government’s determination to maintain law and order and prevent the spread of misinformation and hate speech.
The government’s strong rebuke of IPOB’s allegations served as a clear message that it would not be intimidated by attempts to sow discord and undermine the peaceful coexistence of diverse communities within the state. The emphasis on unity, justice, and the well-being of all residents highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering a harmonious environment where citizens can live and work together without fear. The Edo State Government’s swift and decisive response aimed to counter the narrative being promoted by IPOB and to reassure the public of its commitment to peace and security.
The incident underscored the challenges posed by misinformation and the potential for exploitation of tragic events to fuel ethnic tensions. The Edo State Government’s response illustrated the importance of swift and decisive action to counter false narratives and prevent escalation of violence. The incident also highlighted the need for ongoing efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and understanding between different ethnic and religious groups. The government’s commitment to investigating the source of the misinformation and holding those responsible accountable demonstrated its determination to uphold the rule of law and prevent the spread of harmful propaganda. The Uromi incident and its aftermath served as a reminder of the fragility of peace and the constant need for vigilance and proactive measures to ensure stability and harmonious relations within the state.
