President Tinubu
Tinubu Condemns Lynching of Innocent Hunters in Edo, Orders Probe as Police Arrest 14 Suspects
President Bola Tinubu has denounced the brutal killing of travelers mistaken for kidnappers by vigilantes in Uromi, Edo State, describing the act as “dastardly” and ordering a swift investigation.
In a statement issued Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed shock over Thursday’s incident and directed security agencies to ensure the perpetrators face justice.
“President Tinubu commiserates with the families of the victims and assures Nigerians that such acts of jungle justice have no place in our society,” the statement read. He emphasized the constitutional right of all citizens to move freely across the country and praised Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo and community leaders for their quick intervention to prevent further violence.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects linked to the lynching of 16 travelers, who were later identified as hunters from Rivers State. Police spokesperson Moses Yamu disclosed that the victims were attacked while passing through Uromi in a truck marked KKF 225 XA.
According to Yamu, vigilantes initially detained some travelers found with locally-made guns before a mob falsely labeled them as kidnappers, leading to the fatal assault. Police rescued 10 survivors, with two receiving hospital treatment for injuries.
The Northern Senators Forum, led by Sen. Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, condemned the killings, noting that the victims—misidentified as Fulani kidnappers—were merely northern-bound travelers. The forum urged Edo authorities to take decisive action.
Security reinforcements, including police tactical teams, have been deployed to the area as investigations continue. Authorities have warned against reprisal attacks while reaffirming their commitment to upholding the rule of law.
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