Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has called for the public parade of the suspected killers of 16 hunters from Kano, who were lynched in Edo State. He also demanded compensation for the victims’ families. The demand was made during a condolence visit from Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to Kano, okay.ng reports.
The 16 hunters were murdered by a mob in Uromi, Edo State, after being falsely accused of kidnapping. Governor Yusuf condemned the “cowardly act,” emphasizing the sanctity of human life and calling for accountability. “We urge that those arrested be publicly paraded to bring relief to the victims’ families and to ensure accountability,” he stated. He also commended President Tinubu’s directive for security agencies to pursue the perpetrators.
Governor Okpebholo condemned the “barbaric and unacceptable” killings, assuring that 14 suspects had been arrested and would be transferred to Abuja for further interrogation. He pledged to support the victims’ families, a promise Governor Yusuf acknowledged he had fulfilled. Okpebholo also reiterated President Tinubu’s directive for a thorough investigation.
Statements from both governors highlighted the need to maintain peace and prevent reprisals.
Governor Yusuf assured that security measures were in place, while Okpebholo emphasized the cordial relationship between the Hausa and Edo communities. Leaders from both communities, including Badamasi Saleh of the Arewa community in Edo and Fred Akhigbe of the Edo community in Kano, echoed these sentiments, urging unity and condemning the violence.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin also condemned the killings, calling for a thorough investigation and justice.
The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria stressed the need for oversight of community policing structures.
The Edo State Police Command refuted claims of riots in Uromi, urging the public to disregard fake news and social media misinformation. The Esan Descendants Assembly Worldwide expressed sorrow and condemned the “senseless tragedy,” calling for improved security in the region. The Global Peace Foundation-Nigeria also condemned the incident, emphasizing the need for reinforced societal values and rule of law.
