Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has strongly condemned the brutal killing and burning of seven individuals suspected of kidnapping by a mob in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area. The governor, denouncing the act as barbaric and unacceptable, has vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
The governor’s condemnation was delivered by the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, who visited Uromi on Governor Okpebholo’s directive to assess the situation and ensure a thorough investigation.
According to preliminary findings, the victims were traveling in a commercial truck when local security operatives stopped the vehicle. A search revealed firearms, which subsequently triggered a violent reaction from a mob, resulting in the deaths and burning of the suspects.
“His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, upon receiving the news of this incident, directed me to immediately visit the scene and ascertain what transpired. This development is troubling to the governor, whose priority is to maintain law and order in Edo State. I can assure you that those responsible for this attack will not go unpunished. His Excellency has already directed the Commissioner of Police to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter.” Osaghale stated.
SP Osaghale emphasized that such acts of jungle justice are alien to Edo State and will not be tolerated under Governor Okpebholo’s administration. He reiterated that no individual has the right to take another’s life and underscored the governor’s grave concern regarding the nature of the attack.
Authorities have already made arrests in connection with the incident. “As we speak, over four persons have been arrested for their involvement in this unfortunate incident,” Osaghale confirmed. He also urged residents to remain calm and assured the Hausa community in Uromi of their safety. Security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force, have been deployed to the area to restore peace and normalcy.
Mallam Aliyu Haruna, the leader of the Hausa community in Uromi, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for his swift response and intervention. He acknowledged the reassuring presence of security forces following the incident.
“We sincerely appreciate the Governor for his quick response. This is the first time such an incident has occurred in Uromi, and it is shocking. The people of Uromi have always been hospitable to us in the Hausa community,” Haruna stated.
He highlighted the longstanding peaceful coexistence between the Hausa community and the indigenes of Uromi, noting, “I was born here, just like many others in our community. We have always lived in harmony with the people of Uromi.”
The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served in the aftermath of this tragic event. The investigation remains ongoing.
