By John Audu.
Benin City, Edo State – – Following the tragic killing of 16 hunters in the Uromi area of Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced the suspension of Friday Ibadin, the commander of the Edo State Security Corps. The governor has also ordered an immediate ban on all illegal vigilante groups operating within the state.
The incident occurred on Thursday when a group of hunters of northern descent, traveling from Elele in Rivers State, were attacked by a local vigilante group in Uromi. The vigilantes allegedly mistook the hunters for kidnappers and, upon finding 19 locally fabricated firearms in their possession, killed 16 of them.
The police have confirmed the incident and stated that the local vigilante group involved was not registered with the Edo State Security Corps.
Governor Okpebholo, in a statement released on Saturday through the Secretary to the State Government, condemned the killings and emphasized that the vigilante group responsible was operating illegally.
“It is to be reiterated that the local vigilante group involved in the gruesome killing of 27th March was operating illegally as it was never profiled or registered with Edo State Security Corps,” the statement read. “Its actions do not reflect the core values, character and principles of the Okpebholo administration, or the objectives of the corps as enshrined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.”
The governor assured the public that investigations into the killings are ongoing, with 14 individuals arrested so far. A special team established by the Inspector General of Police is currently conducting an intense manhunt for others involved in the crime.
Governor Okpebholo reiterated the state government’s commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of all citizens to move freely and conduct lawful business in any part of the country.
The state government has also stated that it is in contact with the families of the victims, community leaders, and the Kano State government, where most of the deceased reportedly originated.
Governor Okpebholo urged all parties involved to remain calm, assuring them that the state government is dedicated to ensuring justice is served efficiently, transparently, and proactively.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier directed the police and other security agencies to swiftly investigate the killings and bring the perpetrators to justice.
