Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has called for the public parade of the suspects involved in the lynching of 16 hunters and demanded compensation for their families.
He made the demand during a condolence visit by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, in Kano on Monday, just 48 hours after the victims were buried in Uromi, Edo State.
The hunters were killed by a mob after being accused of being kidnappers. They were traveling in a truck when intercepted by a vigilante group, resulting in 16 deaths while 10 others escaped.
Speaking at the Kano Government House, Yusuf described the killings as disturbing, stressing that Nigeria values human life.
“This cowardly act contradicts our society’s fundamental principles rooted in both Islamic and Christian teachings. So far, 14 suspects have been arrested. As Kano remains dear to me, we will continue to uphold the value of being our brother’s keeper,” he said.
To prevent reprisals, the governor assured that security measures had been strengthened. He urged that the arrested suspects be publicly paraded to bring relief to victims’ families and ensure accountability.
“I call on Governor Okpebholo to ensure fair compensation for the victims’ families. I also commend President Tinubu for his swift response and commitment to justice,” he added.
Okpebholo Condemns Killings, Promises Justice
Governor Okpebholo, in his remarks, condemned the brutal killing of the hunters in Uromi, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable.
“I was deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. Upon my arrival, I met with my Hausa brothers, who supported me during my election campaign,” he said.
He confirmed that President Bola Tinubu had directed security agencies to track down and prosecute the perpetrators.
“We have taken strong measures to ensure accountability. Security agencies have begun investigations, and justice will be served,” he assured.
A statement by the Kano governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, revealed that some victims hailed from Bankure Local Government Area in Kano. Yusuf, moved by the tragedy, pledged that justice would be served.
“I received the news at night and by 4 a.m., I left Abuja for Uromi to meet with the affected families. During my campaign, your people supported me, and I stand with you in this time of grief. I extend my condolences to the people of Kano and pray for the victims’ souls,” Okpebholo said.
He confirmed that 14 suspects had been arrested and would be transferred to Abuja after the holidays for further interrogation, with more arrests expected.
Governors Unite for Justice
Governor Yusuf commended Okpebholo’s swift intervention and support for the bereaved families.
“The victims were returning from Port Harcourt when they were brutally murdered. The majority were from two Kano local governments. Governor Okpebholo ensured their proper burial and supported the families,” Yusuf stated.
He expressed trust in Okpebholo’s promise to bring the culprits to justice and urged leaders nationwide to ensure citizens’ safety.
Community Leaders Call for Unity
Badamasi Saleh, representing the Arewa community in Edo, reaffirmed the strong relationship between northerners and the Edo people, urging against using the incident to damage the state’s image.
“The people of Uromi helped rescue some victims. This tragedy will not break our bond with Edo,” he said.
Fred Akhigbe, leader of the Edo community in Kano, also appreciated Okpebholo’s visit, calling for continued peace and unity.
“We are reassured by both governors’ swift actions. I have lived in Kano for 52 years, and we must remember that we are one. This should not divide us,” he said.
Senate, Security Agencies React
Senate President Godswill Akpabio condemned the killings, calling them a senseless act of violence.
“This barbaric crime is unacceptable. Authorities must conduct a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice,” he stated in a condolence message.
Speaking during a condolence visit to Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin in Abuja, Okpebholo confirmed that the 14 suspects would be handed over to the police for further interrogation.
“The President is taking drastic action. The IGP has deployed officers, and 14 suspects have been arrested. We have also set up a committee to support the victims’ families,” he said.
Jibrin urged Okpebholo to continue pursuing justice, stating that the perpetrators must be punished as a deterrent.
“I am glad your government is ready to assist the victims’ families. Please ensure all those involved are brought to justice,” he said.
Call for Community Policing Reforms
The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria called for better oversight of community security structures.
Chairman Adebo Ogundoyin emphasized the need for professionalism in local security operations.
“This horrific lynching underscores the need for proper oversight of community policing. Security operatives must act within the rule of law,” he said.
He condemned the vigilante group’s actions as unjustifiable, urging swift arrests and prosecution.
Police Debunk Riot Claims
The Edo State Police Command dismissed rumors of a riot in Uromi following the killings.
“There is no fighting or riot in Uromi. The government is working with security agencies to maintain peace,” a senior officer said.
He also debunked a viral video claiming Fulani herders were regrouping for revenge, calling it fake news.
“Social media influencers spreading false information should face the law. They incite violence for likes and money,” he added.
Esan Descendants Condemn Killings
The Esan Descendants Assembly Worldwide expressed outrage, calling the lynching a shameful tragedy.
“This abomination weighs on us all. No one deserves to be judged by fire. No mother should receive her child’s ashes,” the group stated.
They warned against mob justice, highlighting the insecurity plaguing Uromi and its neighboring towns.
“Kidnappers roam freely, yet security agencies remain silent. Justice may be slow, but revenge is no solution. Esanland is not a jungle,” they said.
Global Peace Foundation Demands Justice
The Global Peace Foundation-Nigeria urged a thorough investigation to ensure justice and prevent future occurrences.
“This act of jungle justice is unacceptable. Authorities must conduct an impartial investigation and prosecute those responsible,” said Country Director Dr. John Hayab.
With investigations ongoing, the call for justice remains loud as leaders and communities seek accountability for the tragic killings.
