Residents of communities around Old Ilushi Road, Opere, and Good Will Junction in Uromi, Edo State, have abandoned their homes, fearing reprisals and arrests by security operatives following the lynching of 16 travelers last Thursday.
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, during a visit to Kano State, assured that justice would be served for those killed in the mob attack. He also met with Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, where he disclosed that 14 suspects had been arrested and would be transferred to Abuja for further interrogation.
The Arewa Consultative Forum has called for an independent judicial panel to investigate the killings. Meanwhile, residents of Uromi and surrounding areas have stopped going to their farms, with many seeking refuge in neighboring towns.
Speaking on the incident, a resident, Monday, recounted that local vigilantes had been alerted about travelers allegedly carrying weapons. Upon arrival in Uromi, they were asked to step down but reportedly refused, leading to a confrontation. A member of the group allegedly pulled a knife, which escalated the situation, resulting in their being labeled as kidnappers.
Another resident, Akhere, stated that while the mob action was not justified, the victims were suspected criminals. He emphasized that kidnappings had become rampant in the area, with the government failing to take decisive action against the perpetrators.
Amidst rising tensions, residents have been fleeing the town, fearing indiscriminate arrests. There was also panic in Ekpoma Market following rumors of an impending attack, but security personnel were quickly deployed to restore calm.
In a related development, Jenny Osajie, a resident, recounted how her brother was kidnapped and later killed when the family could not raise the N5 million ransom. She questioned why the government had not taken similar swift action against kidnappers in the past.
Governor Okpebholo, during his visit to Kano, assured that the government was committed to ensuring justice. He revealed that the Inspector-General of Police had directed top officers to take over the investigation. He also pledged compensation for the families of the victims.
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf condemned the killings but cautioned against reprisals, calling for due process in prosecuting those responsible.
Meanwhile, in Torankawa, Bunkure Local Government Area of Kano State, aggrieved youths and women staged a protest, demanding swift justice for the victims. They carried placards with messages calling for accountability and fair treatment of hunters.
The Arewa Consultative Forum also weighed in, condemning the killings as a tragic reflection of Nigeria’s security failings. The group called for an independent probe, rejecting claims that the incident was a case of mistaken identity. It also urged compensation for the victims’ families and the prosecution of those responsible.
