Edo Killings: Okpebholo Suspends Illegal Vigilantes, Head of Security Corps

The governor also suspended the Edo State Security Corps Commander, Mr Friday Ibadin.

The victims of the lynching were said to be travelling from Port Harcourt to the northern part of Nigeria and were allegedly killed by a mob in Uromi, Edo State, on Thursday.

According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the Edo State government, Mr Umar Musa Ikhilor, the action of the governor follows information of the General Public that after a review of the preliminary report of the unfortunate incident at Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State on Thursday involving the gruesome killing of some travelers.

“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.

“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.

“Investigations into the killings are on-going and fourteen (14) persons have been arrested so far, while there is an intense manhunt for others involved in the gruesome killing by a special team set up by the Inspector General of Police,” the statement said.

The governor reiterated its belief in the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens to move freely or engage in lawful business in any part of the country.

The statement added that the government is in touch with families of the victims, community leaders and the Government of Kano State where most of the deceased are reported to hail from.

“We urge all parties involved to remain calm as the State Government remains committed to ensuring that justice is done in a most efficient, transparent and proactive manner,” the statement concluded.

Recall that the President noted that jungle justice has no place in Nigeria, and all Nigerians have the freedom to move freely in any part of the country.

President Tinubu condoled with the families of the affected people and assured them “that criminals would not be allowed to shed the blood of innocent Nigerians in vain”.