The tragic killing of 16 hunters in Uromi, Edo State, has sparked widespread outrage, with calls for justice coming from top military and religious leaders.
The victims, who were on their way from Port Harcourt to Kano for the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, were mistakenly identified as kidnappers and brutally lynched by a mob.
Military and Religious Leaders Condemn the Killings
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, strongly condemned the attack, emphasizing that it could have been prevented if authorities had been notified to verify the identities of the victims.
He assured Nigerians that the military, in collaboration with security agencies, would ensure justice is served.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) have also spoken out, demanding swift legal action against those responsible.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the killings as a gross violation of human rights, calling for urgent measures to prevent such lawless acts in the future.
Government Takes Action
In response to the incident, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has suspended the head of the state’s security corps, Friday Ibadin, along with all unregistered vigilante groups.
He assured the public that investigations are ongoing, with 14 suspects already arrested and a manhunt launched for others involved in the gruesome act.
Emir Sanusi II Warns Against Reprisal Attacks
Meanwhile, the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has urged Kano youths to remain calm and avoid retaliatory violence.
Speaking during an Eid prayer sermon, he called on the authorities to ensure justice for the victims while warning against actions that could further escalate tensions.
Kano State Government Seeks Justice
The Kano State Government has dispatched a high-powered delegation to Edo State to collaborate on identifying and prosecuting those responsible.
Commissioner of Information, Mr. Ibrahim Waiya, assured citizens that all diplomatic and legal avenues would be explored to ensure justice is served.
National Leaders React
House of Representatives spokesman, Akin Rotimi, and the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, have also condemned the killings.
They stressed the need for national unity and security, emphasizing that all Nigerians should feel safe, regardless of their location or ethnicity.
A Call for Justice and Reform
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of mob justice and the urgent need for improved law enforcement and community policing.
Authorities are under pressure to deliver swift justice, ensuring that such barbaric acts do not become a recurring tragedy.
Stay tuned to NIGPOST for updates on this developing story.
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