In the aftermath of rising ethnic tensions following the killing of 16 hunters in Uromi, Edo State, authorities have arrested Hadaina Hussaini Dan-Taki, a former special constabulary officer, for issuing threats of reprisal attacks against southerners residing in northern Nigeria.
Dan-Taki’s arrest follows the outrage sparked by his inflammatory Facebook post on Wednesday, in which he warned of an impending attack on southerners in northern Nigeria. This came after a tragic incident in Uromi, where a group of hunters traveling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, were mistakenly killed by a local mob who believed them to be criminals.
The Kaduna State Police Command quickly distanced itself from Dan-Taki after the post, confirming that he is no longer affiliated with the police force. A statement released by the police on Friday clarified that Dan-Taki had been dismissed from his voluntary position as a special constabulary officer two years ago due to concerns over his conduct. The image of him wearing a police uniform, which went viral alongside the post, was taken during his time in the constabulary and does not reflect his current status.
“Hadaina Hussaini is not a serving officer of the Nigeria Police Force, nor is he attached to the Kaduna Command,” the statement read. “The uniformed image circulating online dates back two years, before his dismissal from the special constabulary for questionable behavior.”
Authorities confirmed that Dan-Taki is in custody and will face legal charges after the ongoing investigation concludes.
Dan-Taki’s threatening Facebook post on Wednesday declared that northerners would soon retaliate against southerners in the north, warning of action to be taken within two weeks. The post caused widespread concern, especially given his previous position within the police force, which many viewed as exacerbating the ethnic tensions. In response to the growing backlash, Dan-Taki locked his social media account to limit access to his posts and comments.
Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), acknowledged the situation on X, stating, “Noted for necessary action. Thanks.”
This incident follows a separate video that emerged earlier in the week, where an unidentified man from northern Nigeria issued a 48-hour ultimatum to President Bola Tinubu and Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, demanding swift action in identifying and apprehending those responsible for the killings. The man warned that failure to act would result in retaliatory attacks on southerners in the north.
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Meanwhile, Governor Okpebholo confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects involved in the killings of the northerners, who were on their way to Kano State for Sallah celebrations when they were attacked by a mob. The suspects have been transferred to Abuja for further investigation. Governor Okpebholo condemned the killings, describing the act as “unacceptable” and assured that the perpetrators would face the full extent of the law.
The federal and state governments are taking steps to address the unrest. President Tinubu has ordered the arrest of those involved in the Uromi killings, while Governor Okpebholo has traveled to Kano to console the grieving families and provide support.
