Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin has visited the families of the 16 travelers killed in Uromi, Esan North-East LGA of Edo State.
Jibrin arrived at the Bunkure Local Government Area of Kano State on Wednesday to sympathize with the victims’ families. According to a statement by his spokesman Ismail Mudashir, the victims hailed from Bunkure, Kibiya, Rano and Garko LGAs.
“I’m here to sympathize with you over the tragic incident that led to the death of 16 of our brothers last Thursday. May Allah grant them Jannatul Firdaus and quicken the recovery of those injured,” Barau told the families during the visit at At-Taqwa Mosque in Sabon Fegi area of Bunkure LGA.
He provided updates on the investigation:
“I was worried when the incident happened. I had to call the state governor, security agencies and all stakeholders involved. They swung into action, and so far apart from the 14 people who have been arrested, two more suspects have been nabbed.”
Barau shared assurances from Edo State leadership:
“The state governor, who visited my house in Abuja, has assured me that the state government will support you.”
The Deputy Senate President announced financial support: “I will give the families of the 16 deceased hunters ₦1 million each,” totaling ₦16 million in donations.
He pledged legislative action: “I will sponsor a motion on the matter when the Senate resumes later this month.”
Barau emphasized justice for the victims: “I want to assure you that the perpetrators of this heinous crime will be brought to book.”
The visit comes nine days after the March 27 lynching of the travelers, who were mistaken for kidnappers. Security agencies continue to investigate the incident while community leaders work to prevent further violence.
