The gruesome murder of 16 hunters in Uromi, Edo State, ignited a firestorm of condemnation and demands for justice, reverberating across Nigeria. The victims, traveling in a truck from Port Harcourt, were intercepted and lynched by a vigilante group who falsely accused them of being kidnappers. The incident sparked immediate outrage, especially in Kano State, the home of many victims. Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, during a condolence visit by his Edo counterpart, Governor Godwin Obaseki (also referred to as Okpebholo in some sources), called for the public parade of the arrested suspects and demanded fair compensation for the victims’ families. He emphasized the sanctity of human life and stressed the need for accountability to prevent future atrocities, while also commending President Tinubu’s swift response in directing a thorough investigation by security agencies.
Governor Obaseki, expressing deep remorse over the barbaric act, assured Governor Yusuf of his commitment to ensuring justice. He detailed the steps taken by the Edo State government, including the arrest of 14 suspects and the initiation of a robust investigation. Obaseki also confirmed his direct engagement with the affected families and his commitment to providing support. The President’s directive to the Inspector-General of Police underscored the gravity of the situation and the national resolve to bring the perpetrators to justice. The Edo governor also visited the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, in Abuja, reiterating his commitment to justice and support for the victims’ families.
Further emphasizing the national concern, Senate President Godswill Akpabio condemned the killings, calling for thorough investigations and accountability. He highlighted the need for unity and understanding in Nigeria, emphasizing that such acts of violence should not be allowed to divide the nation. This sentiment was echoed by various groups and individuals who called for peace and restraint in the wake of the tragedy. The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria emphasized the need for stricter oversight of community security structures to ensure professionalism and prevent future abuses of power.
The incident also highlighted the underlying security challenges within Edo State, particularly in Uromi and its environs. The Esan Descendants Assembly Worldwide, while expressing remorse and distancing the Esan community from the act, pointed to a climate of fear created by rampant kidnappings and lawlessness. They criticized the perceived inaction of security agencies and the government in addressing the escalating insecurity that may have contributed to the vigilante violence. This statement underscored the complex interplay between societal insecurity and the potential for violent reactions.
The Edo State Police Command worked to quell rumors and misinformation, denying reports of riots in Uromi and emphasizing their efforts to maintain peace and prevent reprisals. They also addressed the spread of a false video purportedly showing Fulani herders mobilizing for a fight, highlighting the dangers of misinformation on social media and calling for greater accountability for those who spread inflammatory content. This effort to manage the narrative demonstrated the delicate balance between ensuring justice and preventing further violence.
The tragic incident served as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of upholding the rule of law. The Global Peace Foundation-Nigeria called for the reinforcement of societal values and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing the urgent need to address the root causes of violence and promote a culture of respect for human life. The collective condemnation and the calls for justice, alongside concerns about underlying security issues, highlighted the complex challenges facing Nigeria and the need for concerted efforts to build a more just and peaceful society. The Uromi killings became a focal point for discussions about community policing, vigilante justice, and the role of government in ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
