Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has taken decisive action by suspending Friday Ibadin, the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, in response to the tragic lynching of travelers in Uromi on March 27. The victims, primarily from northern Nigeria, were attacked by a mob after a local vigilante group claimed to have discovered firearms among them while they were traveling in a Dangote Cement truck.
Police intervened to rescue 10 individuals, while the deceased were laid to rest over the weekend. In an official statement, the Edo State Government confirmed Ibadin’s suspension and announced a comprehensive ban on all unregistered vigilante groups operating within the state.
The statement clarified, “In light of the preliminary report concerning the horrific incident in Uromi, Governor Okpebholo has mandated the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups within the state.” It further emphasized that the involved vigilante group was functioning unlawfully as it had not been registered with the Edo State Security Corps.
The Governor’s office reiterated that the actions of the vigilante group do not align with the core values and principles of the current administration. Ongoing investigations have led to the arrest of 14 individuals, with a special police team actively pursuing others connected to the incident.
The Edo State Government maintains its commitment to the constitutional rights of citizens to travel freely and conduct lawful business across the nation. Officials are in communication with the families of the victims, local leaders, and the Kano State Government, where most of the deceased hailed from.
“We urge all stakeholders to stay calm as the government is dedicated to achieving justice efficiently, transparently, and proactively,” the statement concluded.
