Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has strongly condemned the brutal killing of several travelers in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, after they were accused of being kidnappers.
In a statement issued on Friday, the governor, through the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, described the incident as inhumane and unlawful.
He assured that those responsible for the violent act would face justice.
According to the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, preliminary findings indicated that the victims were passengers on a commercial truck stopped by local security personnel.
A search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered firearms, sparking suspicion and a subsequent attack by an enraged mob.
Governor Okpebholo expressed deep concern over the gruesome killings, emphasizing that no individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands.
“Upon learning about this tragic event, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, immediately directed me to visit the scene for firsthand assessment,” Osaghale stated.
“He has also instructed the Commissioner of Police to conduct a thorough investigation. So far, four suspects have been apprehended in connection with the attack.”
The governor urged the public to maintain peace and reassured the Hausa community in Uromi of their safety, noting that security personnel had been deployed to prevent further unrest.
Speaking on behalf of the Hausa residents, their leader, Aliyu Haruna, expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government for its swift response. He condemned the attack, describing it as unprecedented in Uromi’s history.
“This is the first time we have experienced such violence in Uromi,” Haruna said. “For over 70 years, we have lived here harmoniously, and the people of Uromi have always been welcoming.”
