Tinubu, Okpebholo Condemn Mob Killing In Edo, Call For Justice.
President Bola Tinubu and Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, have strongly condemned the killing of travellers falsely accused of being kidnappers by a mob in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State.
The victims, identified as hunters travelling for Sallah, were intercepted by a local vigilante group. Upon discovering dane guns in their vehicle, the group hastily concluded they were kidnappers, leading a mob to set them ablaze.
Presidential Directive for Swift Justice
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed shock at the gruesome act and ordered security agencies to track down those responsible.
“The President, who expressed shock at the dastardly act, directed the police and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and punish the suspected culprits,” the statement read.
Condemning the act of jungle justice, Tinubu reaffirmed that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to free movement. He extended his condolences to the bereaved families and assured them that justice would be served.
“Jungle justice has no place in Nigeria, and all Nigerians have the freedom to move freely in any part of the country,” he declared.
Edo State Government Takes Action
Governor Okpebholo also denounced the killings, describing them as barbaric and unacceptable. Speaking through the Chief Security Officer of the Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, in Uromi, he confirmed that four suspects had already been arrested in connection with the attack.
“I can assure you that the people involved in this unprovoked attack will not go scot-free, as His Excellency has directed the Commissioner of Police to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter. As I speak, over four persons have been arrested for their involvement in this ugly incident,” Osaghale said.
The governor urged residents, particularly the Hausa community in Uromi, to remain calm, assuring them of their safety. He confirmed that security personnel had been deployed to maintain order and prevent further violence.
Community Leaders Praised for Swift Intervention
Governor Okpebholo commended local community leaders for their proactive efforts in preventing the situation from escalating. President Tinubu also acknowledged the swift intervention of the Edo State government and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Security agencies are continuing their investigations to apprehend all those responsible for the attack and ensure justice is served.
