Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has ordered a full investigation into the mob killing of seven travelers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area. The victims were accused of being kidnappers after firearms were allegedly discovered in their vehicle.
Governor Okpebholo visited Uromi on Friday and condemned the killings, describing them as a tragic act of lawlessness. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor made it clear that no one has the right to take the law into their own hands, regardless of the circumstances.
“There is no excuse for vigilante members to take the law into their hands without recourse to statutory law enforcement agencies,” the governor stated.
He directed the Edo State Police Command and other security agencies to launch a swift and thorough investigation. He also stressed that anyone found responsible for the killings must face justice.
The incident reportedly involved members of a local vigilante group, who intercepted a vehicle carrying the victims.
Upon finding weapons in the vehicle, the group allegedly decided to act without waiting for law enforcement authorities, leading to the brutal deaths of the travelers. The mob action has sparked tension in the community, with many questioning whether due process was followed.
