The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has strongly condemned the recent attack in Uromi, Edo State, calling it a gross violation of human rights and a direct assault on the rule of law. Amnesty International has also condemned the killings, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice. The Forum has demanded a swift and thorough investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The tragic incident unfolded when a truck carrying 25 travellers from Elele, Rivers State, was intercepted by a local vigilante group. During the stop, some travellers were found in possession of locally made dane guns, raising suspicions among the vigilantes. Tensions quickly escalated as the group accused the travellers of being kidnappers, sparking mob violence.
Community members and passers-by, reacting to the alarm, attacked and lynched 16 of the travellers before setting their truck on fire. Police operatives from the Uromi Division arrived at the scene after receiving distress calls, managing to rescue ten survivors, two of whom had sustained injuries. The injured victims were immediately transported to a hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed deep concern over the brutal killings. He condemned the act, stating, “We are deeply disturbed by the loss of innocent lives and the horrific manner in which these individuals were attacked. This appalling act undermines the rule of law and the very fabric of our society. It is imperative that relevant authorities conduct a comprehensive investigation to ensure that those responsible are swiftly identified, arrested, and prosecuted.”
The NSGF extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected, while urging Nigerians to remain united in the face of such tragic events. Yahaya reaffirmed that every Nigerian has the fundamental right to travel freely and safely without fear of violence or intimidation.
The Forum called on both federal and state governments, as well as law enforcement agencies, to take decisive action in preventing similar attacks in the future. Additionally, it urged the public to remain calm and allow authorities to handle the matter through due legal processes.
To prevent further unrest, the Edo State Police Command has deployed additional security personnel, including a unit of the Police Mobile Force and other tactical teams, to the affected area. The Commissioner of Police in Edo, Betty Otimenyin, has called for calm and urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement authorities.
“She also cautioned against any form of reprisal attacks or unlawful gatherings that could escalate tensions,” said CSP Moses Yamu, the command’s Public Relations Officer.
The brutal attack, which occurred on Thursday along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway, has sparked nationwide outrage and widespread demands for justice. Authorities have linked 14 suspects to the crime.
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Confirming the arrests, CSP Moses Yamu condemned the killings and assured the public that investigations were ongoing. “The command is committed to ensuring justice for the victims. No stone will be left unturned in the ongoing investigation,” Yamu stated in a press release issued on Friday in Benin.
As the investigation continues, the Northern Governors’ Forum remains firm in its call for justice, emphasizing that such acts of violence must not be tolerated in any part of the country. The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to fostering peace, unity, and security across Nigeria, urging all citizens to work together to uphold the principles of justice and lawfulness.
