Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects in connection with the recent killing of Kano-bound travellers in Uromi Local Government Area of the state, Okay.ng reports.
The suspects, who were detained after a mob attacked a group of hunters travelling for Sallah celebrations, have been transferred to Abuja for further interrogation, the governor disclosed on Monday during a condolence visit to Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin in Abuja.
The tragic incident occurred last Thursday, drawing national outrage and prompting swift intervention by security agencies and the state government.
“It’s unfortunate that it happened in our state. We are here to say, to let you and other people know that we are not happy,” Governor Okpebholo was quoted as saying by Ismail Mudashir, media aide to Senator Barau.
He assured that the federal and state governments were committed to ensuring justice, noting that President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) had taken immediate action on the matter.
“The president is doing something drastic about this. He’s not happy also. The IG has swung into action. The DIG CID is in charge. So far, they have arrested 14 suspects. So they are bringing them to Abuja for interrogation,” Okpebholo said.
The governor also announced that a special committee had been set up by his administration to support the families of those who lost their lives in the attack.
In his response, Senator Barau commended the governor’s swift action and stressed the importance of justice.
“We cannot undo what has been done. But what all Nigerians are looking forward to is for these people to be arrested and brought to justice. And you are doing well in that direction,” he said.
“I’m also glad you’ve spoken about the fact that your government is ready to assist the families of those affected.”
The deputy senate president described the killings as “barbaric” and urged the Edo State Government to remain resolute in ensuring that such acts never recur.
