In a tragic incident in Edo State, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has condemned the brutal killing of 16 hunters by a vigilante group while they were traveling to Kano from Rivers State. The victims were reportedly mistaken for kidnappers and lynched after their vehicle was intercepted last Thursday.
The Edo State government has confirmed that 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, which has sparked widespread outrage across northern communities and political circles. Governor Monday Okpehbolo has reached out to the families of the victims and engaged with Hausa community leaders and northern governors to address the situation.
In a statement issued on Sunday, General Musa emphasized the need for citizens to rely on security agencies rather than taking the law into their own hands. He assured the public that the Armed Forces are committed to working alongside the police to ensure justice is served. Musa also urged local vigilante groups to register with appropriate authorities to prevent such tragic incidents from recurring.
Amid escalating tensions, Governor Okpehbolo has suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (retd.), and has ordered a crackdown on illegal vigilante groups operating in the state. This decision follows a preliminary review of the incident, which highlighted the illegal nature of the group involved in the killings.
In response to the violence, prominent figures, including the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, have urged calm and discouraged any thoughts of retaliation, emphasizing the importance of justice and peaceful coexistence.
The incident has drawn condemnation from various organizations, including the Christian Association of Nigeria and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, both calling for thorough investigations and a commitment to uphold the rule of law.
As investigations continue, community leaders and politicians from northern Nigeria have expressed their concerns about safety and security for their people in southern regions. Leaders emphasize the necessity of maintaining peace and preventing further escalations that could arise from the tragic events in Edo State.
The Edo State government remains in contact with the families of the victims and is dedicated to ensuring that justice is served transparently and efficiently.
