The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has expressed profound condemnation over the recent brutal killing of travelers from Northern Nigeria in the Udune Efandion community of Uromi, Edo State. This tragic incident has ignited national outrage and calls for justice, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures across the country.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, who chairs the NSGF, described the attack as a gross violation of human rights. He emphasized that such extrajudicial violence is unacceptable and must be met with severe condemnation. The forum extended its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by this tragedy.
The incident occurred when a mob in Uromi intercepted a vehicle transporting travelers from Northern Nigeria. Upon discovering locally made weapons in the vehicle, the mob suspected the occupants of being kidnappers and proceeded to lynch 16 individuals by setting them on fire using tires. This gruesome act has drawn widespread criticism and highlighted the dangers of mob justice in the country.
In response to the killings, the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has issued three key demands to the Edo State and federal governments. Firstly, they call for the arrest and public trial of those responsible for the killings to ensure transparency and accountability. Secondly, they demand an unreserved public apology from the people and authorities of Edo State, along with a commitment to preventing such barbaric acts in the future. Lastly, they insist on the payment of compensation to the families of the victims in line with prescribed standards. The NEF has given a two-week ultimatum for these demands to be met, warning of unspecified consequences if they are not addressed.
The remains of the slain travelers were laid to rest amid heavy tears, with members of the Hausa community and other mourners expressing profound grief over the loss. During the burial, the Ojuromi of Uromi, Anselm Aidenojie II, alongside Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, condemned the killings and assured that security agencies are taking measures to avert reprisals. Governor Okpebholo subsequently ordered the suspension of all vigilante groups in the state to prevent further incidents.
The Northern Senators Forum has also voiced its condemnation, describing the incident as deeply disturbing and saddening. They emphasized that the victims were tragically stereotyped and brutally murdered, calling for immediate action to identify and prosecute the perpetrators. The forum commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for directing security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, highlighting the government's commitment to upholding justice and protecting the rights of all citizens.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar joined in condemning the killings, extending his condolences to the families of the victims. He stressed that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done to restore public confidence in the country's security institutions. Similarly, the House of Representatives described the killings as a grave violation of human rights and the rule of law, acknowledging the directives of President Tinubu and Governor Okpebholo for urgent investigations.
This tragic event underscores the pervasive issue of mob violence in Nigeria, which has seen a surge over the past decade. According to a 2024 Amnesty International report, mob attacks in the south are often linked to accusations of theft and witchcraft, while the north has witnessed a rise in mob attacks over alleged blasphemy. Since 2019, there have been at least 391 mob killings in the country, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address this menace.
The Edo State Police Command has announced the arrest of 14 suspects in connection with the killings. Police spokesperson Moses Yamu stated that during a search of the travelers' vehicle, locally made weapons were discovered, which triggered the mob attack. He added that ten individuals were rescued from the attack, with two hospitalized due to injuries. The police have pledged to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure that justice is served.
In light of this incident, there have been widespread calls for the government to implement measures that promote tolerance, understanding, and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians. The Northern Governors Forum emphasized that all Nigerians should be able to travel freely and safely without fear of harassment, violence, or intimidation. They urged the government and law enforcement agencies to take swift action to prevent such incidents from recurring, highlighting the need for a culture of tolerance and respect for human rights.
The tragic events in Uromi serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of mob justice and the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address insecurity and promote peaceful coexistence in Nigeria. It is imperative that the government and relevant stakeholders work together to ensure that such incidents do not recur, and that justice is served for the victims and their families.
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