The Edo State government has confirmed the arrest of two key suspects linked to the brutal killing of 16 hunters in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area.
The Department of State Services (DSS) apprehended the individuals following credible intelligence, a development that has been described as crucial in the quest for justice.
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, announced the arrests, stating that security forces are actively pursuing other suspects involved in the tragic incident.
The arrested individuals have been transferred to Abuja for further interrogation and prosecution.
The victims, all of Northern extraction, were traveling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Kano for the Sallah celebration when they were mistakenly identified as kidnappers by local vigilantes and lynched.
Governor Okpebholo, during a condolence visit to Kano, revealed that 14 other suspects had already been arrested in connection with the killings.
He assured the families of the victims that justice would be served and promised adequate compensation.
Meanwhile, the Kano State government has reiterated its demand for justice, emphasizing the need for transparency in the legal process.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf thanked Governor Okpebholo for visiting the families in Torankawa, Kano, where most of the victims hailed from.
“We appreciate the actions taken so far, but justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done,” Yusuf stated.
He also called for a public parade of the arrested suspects to ensure accountability.
Governor Yusuf commended the Edo State government’s commitment to compensating the victims’ families and urged a swift implementation of the promised support.
“The compensation promised is commendable, but it must be executed without delay,” he added.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has described the killings as a gross violation of human rights.
Dr. Tony Ojukwu, the commission’s executive secretary, stated that the victims’ right to freedom of movement was violated under Nigerian and international human rights laws.
“The commission demands that the perpetrators be identified and brought to justice. Jungle justice has no place in a civilized society,” Ojukwu said.
He urged the government to take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
In addition, the NHRC called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations to raise awareness about the dangers of jungle justice and the importance of upholding the rule of law.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has expressed deep sorrow over the killings, calling them a stain on humanity.
“The pain and anguish their families must endure are unbearable. This heinous act is a tragedy that should unite us in our demand for justice,” CAN stated.
The association also urged those calling for revenge to reconsider, emphasizing that retaliation would only lead to further chaos.
Meanwhile, the Conference of State Legislatures has called for stricter oversight of vigilante groups to prevent similar tragedies.
Adebo Ogundoyin, the chairman of the conference, stressed the need for professionalism in community security operations.
“It is essential to ensure that local security operatives function with professionalism, respect for human rights, and adherence to the rule of law,” the lawmakers stated.
Islamic organizations, including the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT) and The Muslim Congress (TMC), have also condemned the killings.
They urged affected communities to exercise restraint and avoid retaliatory attacks.
Imam Maroofdeen AbdulAzeez Onike of NASFAT referenced a Quranic verse, stating, “Killing an innocent soul is akin to killing all of mankind.”
He called on Nigerians to value every life and work towards a peaceful society.
Similarly, TMC’s Amir, Alhaji AbdulWasi’I Taiwo Bangbala, emphasized the need for proper regulation of vigilante groups to ensure they operate under legal frameworks.
The Kano State government expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for swiftly directing security agencies to apprehend and prosecute those responsible.
The federal government’s intervention has been seen as a crucial step toward ensuring justice.
“The people of Torankawa appreciate the concerted efforts of both the Edo and federal governments in addressing this matter,” a statement from the Kano State government read.
Both state governors have committed to a thorough investigation and justice process to prevent a recurrence of such a tragic event.
The Kano government also assured that it would continue monitoring the case closely to ensure the victims’ families receive the compensation and support they deserve.
The arrests have marked a significant step toward justice, but authorities insist that more needs to be done.
