Kano Govt condemns Edo killing
The Kano State Government has condemned the killing of 16 hunters traveling to Kano by a vigilance group in Uromi,Edo State.
This is contained in a statement issued by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Malam Ibrahim Wayya,in Kano on Saturday.
“The brutal killing, which claimed the lives of at least 16 individuals, is a heinous act that must be met with an unwavering response from our security and judicial institutions.
“Preliminary reports indicate that the victims—predominantly hunters journeying from Rivers State to Kano to join their loved ones in celebrating Eid—were ambushed by a vigilante group and armed youths.
“The assault escalated when their vehicle was forcibly intercepted, leading to the victims being savagely beaten, bound with used tyres doused in petrol, and set on fire.
“This unconscionable act of mob violence is not only a personal tragedy for the affected families but also a stark indicator of the disturbing rise of extrajudicial measures in Nigeria. It undermines the sanctity of human life and erodes public trust in the state’s ability to uphold law and order.
“In the light of these events, we call for an immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation into the incident. All individuals found to be complicit in this atrocity must be brought to justice, including any law enforcement personnel who may have neglected their duty.
“Nigerian authorities are reminded of their unequivocal obligation under international law to protect the rights and lives of all citizens, ensuring that no act of violence or torture goes unpunished,”Wayya said.
The government called on President Bola Tinubu and Gov. Monday Okpebholo to “denounce this act unequivocally and to demonstrate a steadfast commitment to justice by ensuring that the perpetrators are swiftly prosecuted through a fair and impartial trial.”
“The Uromi tragedy, sadly, is not an isolated event but part of a broader and alarming trend of vigilante violence across the nation. This culture of impunity can only be countered by decisive action—both punitive and preventive—to reestablish the rule of law,” it said.
The government then expressed its deepest sympathy to the families and friends of the victims involved in the tragic incident.