Edo, Nigeria – The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has condemned the brutal lynching of 16 travellers in Edo State, vowing that perpetrators will face the full wrath of the law. The victims, mostly hunters returning to Kano from Rivers State for Eid celebrations, were mistaken for kidnappers and set ablaze by a vigilante group in Uromi on March 27.
In a statement by Defence Spokesman Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, the CDS described the killings as “avoidable” had security agencies been properly notified. “This tragic incident could have been prevented if the appropriate authorities were involved in verifying the victims’ identities,” Musa stated. He urged Nigerians to refrain from mob justice and trust security forces to handle such matters.
Edo Govt Takes Action
Governor Monday Okpebholo swiftly suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (retd.), and disbanded all illegal vigilante groups linked to the attack. The state government confirmed 14 arrests and assured collaboration with federal authorities to ensure justice.
“The governor has engaged the victims’ families, Hausa community leaders, and northern governors to prevent reprisals,” said Commissioner for Information Paul Ohonbamu. “We will not tolerate such barbarism in Edo.”
Northern Leaders Appeal for Calm
The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, cautioned against reprisals during his Eid sermon, stressing that Islam forbids vengeance. “Justice must be served through lawful means,” he declared, while urging security agencies to act swiftly.
The Arewa Consultative Forum and Southern Youth Association of Nigeria echoed calls for restraint, even as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) condemned the killings as “ungodly and unlawful.”
Investigation Intensifies
Police have launched a manhunt for additional suspects, with assurances from the Hausa community in Edo that tensions are being managed. “We trust the governor’s resolve to punish the culprits,” said community leader Alhaji Badamosi Saleh.
The incident has sparked nationwide outrage, with lawmakers and civil society groups demanding stricter regulation of vigilante activities.
