The Kano State Government has expressed satisfaction with the recent steps taken by the Edo State Government in connection with the tragic killings of 16 hunters. According to reports, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the brutal incident, with further investigations underway.
Noting the progress made, the Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam, shared insights from a recent delegation visit to Edo State. He revealed that the team had traveled for nearly two hours from Benin to Uromi, where they were warmly received by a large crowd.
The Deputy Governor described the situation in Uromi as promising, particularly with regard to the peaceful coexistence between the Hausa community and the various ethnic groups living there. He noted that both political and traditional leaders in the area had strongly condemned the violence.
“This very tragic incident. The traditional leadership was so outspoken and vocal and condemned in strong terms the perpetrators of this very dastardly act. The religious leadership also condemned these heinous incidents,” said Abdussalam.
The Deputy Governor further emphasized the strong stand taken by the Edo State leadership, including both political and religious figures, in rejecting the violence.
He noted that the leaders had collectively expressed their opposition to the killings, offering reassurances that the people of Edo State, particularly those in Uromi, would continue to live peacefully alongside people from other parts of the country, especially Northerners and those from Kano State.
“The government has assured and reassured the nation that Uromi and Edo State will continue to welcome people from all parts of the country, especially people from the North and Kano State in particular, and that they have nothing against anybody. They have nothing against our people who have been living in peace with them, and they will continue to live in peace with them. Nigeria shall continue to be one,” Abdussalam remarked.
The Deputy Governor also recognized the response of the Edo State government and communities, noting that it was clear they were committed to ensuring that such an incident would not happen again. The warm reception received during the visit confirmed their resolve to bring peace and healing to the region.
Abdussalam further confirmed that the authorities had already arrested 14 suspects, with more arrests expected. The police and the Department of State Services (DSS) are actively seeking additional individuals involved in the killings. In addition to the arrests, the Governor of Edo State, Pastor Monday Okpebholo, has disbanded the local vigilante group believed to be involved. Okpebholo has also called for the transfer of the Commissioner of Police over the handling of the situation.
“The key figures who played major roles have been arrested, and more arrests are expected, as some of them are on the run. So, the police and the SSS are still looking for them,” Abdussalam explained.
He also confirmed that compensation would be provided for those who lost their lives or belongings in the attack. The victims were reportedly returning from Port Harcourt when their vehicle was set on fire, along with the goods they were carrying.
