President Tinubu Orders Manhunt for Killers of Hunters in Edo

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned in the strongest terms the gruesome murder of 16 travelers in Uromi, Edo State, by an irate mob. Expressing his shock over the incident, the President Tinubu has directed security agencies, including the police, to carry out a swift and thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.

In a statement issued on Thursday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the victims’ families and assured them that those responsible would face the full wrath of the law.

“The President Tinubu, who expressed shock at the dastardly act, directed the police and other security agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and punish the suspected culprits. He assured Nigerians that criminals would not be allowed to shed the blood of innocent citizens without consequences,” the statement read.

The Incident: A Case of Mistaken Identity?

Reports indicate that the victims, who identified themselves as hunters, were traveling in a Dangote Cement truck when they were stopped around 1:30 p.m. in Udune Efandion community by local vigilantes. Upon searching the vehicle, the vigilantes discovered locally-made dane guns, which led to suspicions that the travelers were kidnappers.

A video circulating online shows a harrowing scene where the victims were lynched, beaten to a stupor, and set ablaze. In the disturbing footage, one of the victims was heard pleading for his life, crying, “Please, please, wayo, wayo.” Shockingly, some bystanders continued their activities, seemingly unperturbed by the horrific spectacle.

An eyewitness, identified as John, explained that the mob, driven by frustration over frequent kidnappings in the area, reacted impulsively rather than handing the travelers over to law enforcement. “The vigilantes found weapons, but they should have reported to the authorities instead of resorting to jungle justice,” he lamented.

Tinubu: Security Response and Arrests

The Edo State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects linked to the attack. According to the command’s spokesperson, Moses Yamu, security forces have been deployed to the area to prevent further unrest.

“The incident occurred when a truck, with registration number KKF 225 XA, coming from Port Harcourt, conveying 25 travelers, was stopped by a vigilante group in Uromi. Some of the travelers were found in possession of locally-made dane guns, which led to suspicions that they were kidnappers. Unfortunately, before the police could intervene, a mob attacked, lynching 16 of them and setting their truck on fire,” Yamu stated.

He added that 10 of the travelers were rescued by police, with two suffering severe injuries. The injured victims are currently receiving medical treatment. Law enforcement officials have cautioned residents against engaging in further unlawful gatherings or reprisals.

Nationwide Reactions: Calls for Justice

President Tinubu’s condemnation of the attack was echoed by several political leaders and organizations. The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), led by Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State, described the killings as a gross violation of human rights.

“This appalling act undermines the rule of law and the very fabric of our society. It is imperative that a thorough investigation be conducted, and justice be served,” Yahaya declared. He further emphasized the need to ensure that all Nigerians, regardless of region, can travel freely without fear of violence.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also weighed in on the incident, calling for a transparent and impartial investigation. “Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done to restore public confidence in our security institutions,” he said.

Similarly, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, described the mob action as deeply saddening and called for an urgent review of Nigeria’s justice system to prevent future extrajudicial killings. Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso echoed these sentiments, condemning the tragedy and affirming the right of every Nigerian to travel freely without harassment.

Edo State Government’s Response

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, also strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “barbaric and vicious act.” Represented by the Chief Security Officer of the Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, the governor vowed that those responsible would face the full weight of the law.

“I assure you that the perpetrators of this unprovoked attack will not escape justice. His Excellency has directed the Commissioner of Police to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter, and as we speak, more than four individuals have already been arrested,” Okpebholo stated.

The governor also urged the public to allow law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation rather than resorting to mob violence. He emphasized that jungle justice has no place in a lawful society and warned against the dangers of taking the law into one’s hands.

President Tinubu orders manhunt: A Test for the Rule of Law

The tragic incident in Edo State has once again brought to light the dangers of extrajudicial killings and the urgent need for reform in Nigeria’s justice system. While President Tinubu’s directive for a manhunt is a step toward accountability, the case underscores the importance of strengthening security measures, ensuring timely police intervention, and educating the public on the rule of law.

As investigations continue, Nigerians await justice for the victims, hoping that such a gruesome episode never repeats itself. Meanwhile, the President Tinubu administration and security agencies must work diligently to prevent the rise of mob justice, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of background, is protected under the law.